A national campaign has been launched to encourage people in Scotland to volunteer during the coronavirus pandemic.

The ‘Scotland Cares’ initiative is asking people who are healthy and not at increased risk of the virus to provide practical or emotional help to those most in need.

To comply with current stay at home rules the public will only be able to carry out tasks which involve leaving their home once a day if they are not self-isolating or in any risk categories.

The Ready Scotland website will act as a hub to direct people to different options, with returning NHS workers directed to existing voluntary arrangements in the health service.

Members of the public wishing to offer support to public services such as the NHS and councils will be directed to a site co-ordinated by the British Red Cross.

Anyone seeking opportunities with charities or community groups in their area will be directed to the Volunteer Scotland organisation for further information.

A drive for volunteers to help the NHS in England during the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in more than 700,000 people signing up.

First minister Nicola Sturgeon said there was a huge number of people already volunteering in Scotland and many more had a desire to help.

“This site means that those who are able to can contribute in a way which makes a real difference,” she said.

“It helps people to help each other, as we all get through this together.”

Shirley-Anne Somerville, cabinet secretary for social security and older people, added: “The Scottish Government is working closely with local government and a range of partners to co-ordinate the volunteering effort across Scotland.

“By providing this national portal we will be able to connect people to where their contribution is most needed in their local community, ensuring everyone can play their part on helping Scotland come through this pandemic.”

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