During these uncertain times our number one priority as a city must be to ensure support is in place for our most vulnerable citizens – whether that’s through council services or community-led help.

In recent days and weeks it has been truly heartening to see the strength of our community spirit in Bristol, with so many people stepping forward to help others. We are blessed by the swell of support and volunteerism we’re seeing across the city.

To help coordinate the city’s volunteers and the many volunteering opportunities we are recommending that people sign up to Can Do Bristol – a council-backed listings website with details about where help is needed and how to get involved.

You’ll also find details of the Coronavirus Response Fund, managed by Quartet Community Foundation, for those who would like to donate money to help the city’s most disadvantaged communities in the coming months. Organisations running volunteer programmes will find advice from Voscur on the site about best practice and how to keep volunteers, and the most vulnerable, safe.

As communities come together to help one another, please keep an eye out for those who see this uncertain time as an opportunity to gain only for themselves and take advantage of the situation. If you are concerned about an adult with care and support needs who is experiencing or is at risk of experiencing abuse please do not hesitate to contact Bristol’s Safeguarding Adults Team by phone 0117 922 2700 or submit a safeguarding referral online.