Tuesday 29 December 2020

Mutual Aid.

           This Covid19 pandemic has forced us all to rethink the way we do things, and one of the positive actions that have come from the drastic circumstances we find ourselves in, is the number of "Mutual Aid" groups that have sprung up all over the country. Let's hope we learn that these groups are not just for  emergencies, but point the way to a better way of doing things in our communities from here on in. A way to get to know your community, to enrich your community, to offer the hand of help where needed, and spread friendship across your community. Also a method to bypass the corporate profit seeking moguls that exploit us on a daily basis. You know it makes sense.

         Got this wee article from a comrade, Nick, thanks Nick.

Mutual Aid – A Radical Response
        “Mutual Aid is the sharing of resources as opposed to the wealthy giving to the needy” 
         Glasgow Mutual Aid (GMA) was set up in response to the covid pandemic at a time when charities and state organisations were slow to respond. We saw organising democratically, without hierarchy and bypassing the system to deliver a non-judgemental service as both being necessary and to be a radical act. We quickly realised that we needed to respond to non-covid situations as well. However, few of us thought that ten months later we would still be active and be needed more than ever.

 
          Whether it’s help with shopping; collecting prescriptions; a friendly regular phone call; picking up medication for pets; arranging food parcels or accompanying someone anxious about travelling to visit their dying mother, our volunteers have met a variety of challenges both willingly and imaginatively. Many volunteers have also received a service, for example when required to self isolate.

 

        As people’s circumstances have changed and furlough has ended for many, our pool of volunteers has dwindled. However, the current resurgence of the virus and the toll that months of restrictions is taking on many people, means that demand is rising again. There are currently opportunities for volunteers across all Glasgow postcodes. Even if it’s only a couple of hours a week, you can make a difference to folk in your local community. Get Involved to volunteer or request a service:

Phone M-F 10-2 0141 280 7025

Text 07451289389

support.glasgowmutualaid.co.uk
volunteer.glasgowmutualaid.co.uk
Visit ann arky's home at https://radicalglasgow.me.uk 

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