Woman working on a computer

Trudy Lowen is usually found helping groups and families discover a love of books but she’s swopped that to help on the front line.

She is working in the Community Response Unit (CRU) answering phone calls from the public who need assistance during the current crisis.

Trudy said:

“I have been a Samaritan volunteer for 11 years so felt I may have skills that I could use in the CRU.”

The CRU work involves taking calls from the public who need support with food delivery and prescription collection and who have no support from family or friends.

Most of these callers are vulnerable and are shielding at home which means they may not go out for 12 weeks.

Trudy said:

“Callers are often distressed and we try to help them by referring them to the voluntary partners who DCC are working with in the community.

 “I do feel that myself and my colleagues at CRU are making a difference to people in need in Derbyshire, we are a point of contact and comfort but also give practical support."

Trudy Lowen, Community Reponse Unit