Gwynedd outdoor instructor swaps roles to deliver medicines amid coronavirus crisis
A Gwynedd outdoor instructor has taken a dramatic change of course in swapping his hiking boots for a facemask to help the thousands dealing with the impacts of self-isolation.
Amlyn Parri from y Groeslon, near Caernarfon, has now taken to delivering medicines to meet the unprecedented demand of those who have to self-isolate at home.
“I have a background in care work, and when I saw the council’s advert seeking additional care workers, I put my name down immediately,” said Amlyn, who now works full-time delivering medicines for the pharmacy at Hafan Iechyd surgery, Caernarfon
“My work situation has changed as a result of the virus, and I have the time to help out. I wanted to be of use and wanted to help.”
Amlyn, who spends his days distributing hundreds of packages to individuals across the area, added: “It is sometimes difficult to find the houses, but I’m now beginning to develop a system.
“People were frightened at first, seeing me in a mask, but they are very grateful once they realise what I’m doing.”
Amlyn has to follow robust safety procedures at his work, wearing gloves, a mask and overalls, and keeping a distance from the individuals getting the medical goods from him.
Hafan Iechyd manager Bethan Jones said that there has been a huge increase in the demand for prescriptions delivered to the door recently.
She said: “We usually only delivered medicines once a week.
“This was for older or disabled people, but we are now delivering hundreds every day.”
Meilys Heulfryn Smith, who co-ordinates the campaign for Gwynedd Council and their partners, said: “Lots of people have been contacting us from all parts of the county.
“And when we got a request from Hafan Iechyd for workers to transport medicines to individuals who are self-isolating, we had in Amlyn the perfect person for the work.”
Gwynedd Council is eager to hear from anyone with experience or a wish to work or volunteer in care work, especially people to work in residential homes, care homes or in community nursing.
Further information is available on www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/Covid19Volunteer , email gofalu@gwynedd.llyw.cymru or call 01286 679577/ 07384 876908.
By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter
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