Our Nantwich Buddies have been busy supporting the rapid lateral flow testing at Cheshire’s Reaseheath College. Almost eight thousand tests from students, staff and visiting professionals have been processed through the centre over the last two weeks.
A 27-strong team from Nantwich Buddies, a community volunteer support group, together with members of Reaseheath’s Student Association have supported the testing team of staff volunteers.
Following online and onsite training before taking up their roles, our Buddies have been involved in every part of the process, from marshalling students, ensuring the tests are completed properly and logged, to cleaning down testing booths!
Ten bays have been available for self swabbing, with participants receiving their test results by text from the NHS to their personal mobiles, usually within 30 minutes.
It’s been a demanding but fulfilling experience for everyone and we've been working in 4-hour shifts to help support the testing. Nigel Keegan, one of our fabulous team said “It’s been great to be involved with the testing at Reaseheath. We really feel as though we are making a difference and helping to get out of this pandemic. I’ve met some amazing people and the college’s organisation of the process has been brilliant.” The photo shows Nigel with fellow Buddies Carmel Melia and John Burt ready for action!
As a thank you, our volunteers received some wonderful gifts during a Thank you presentation from different departments of the college, including cheeses, flower bouquets and mini zoo/family day vouchers. What a lovely gesture!
Nantwich Buddy Nigel with fellow Buddies Carmel Melia and John Burt ready for action!
Nantwich Buddies support team at the testing booths.
Nantwich Buddies support team are thanked by Louise Woodman (Director of People and Culture) and Mark Birkitt (Head of Student Services).
Nantwich Buddies receive their gifts from Louise Woodman, Marcus Clinton (Principal) and Mark Birkitt.