We are inviting anyone over the age of 16 who lives or works in Torbay to volunteer as a COVID-19 community champion. You’ll be helping us keep your family, friends and colleagues safe by keeping them up to date on how to stop the spread of the virus.

As a COVID-19 community champion, you’ll get regular updates on the latest information, guidance and support for you to share. We’ll also provide training and on-going support for you, so you can develop your existing skills and gain new ones. We’re looking for people who love to communicate, in person or online, and who are able to motivate people to make a difference.

Dr Caroline Dimond, Torbay’s Director of Public Health, said: “Local cases are rising, which is putting pressure on our local NHS services. Cases are rising across all age groups, and infections rates are accelerating fast in people of working age. We need people to think COVID at all times, and to help others follow the guidance.”

Councillor Jackie Stockman, Cabinet Member for Adults and Public Health, said: “We are learning more about coronavirus and how to reduce the spread of it every day. We know it can sometimes be confusing which is why we need volunteers who can be a reliable source of information for their family, friends, workmates or customers. This is a simple way for people to help us tackle the virus and keep Torbay safe.”

Organisations can also sign up to be a COVID-19 community champion. You might be a business that wants to make sure your employees and customers know how to keep themselves safe. Or you might be a community group who are already active in sharing information in your neighbourhood and want to be confident you’re sharing the latest news.

We are asking for champions to pledge to help keep Torbay safe today, and will be holding our launch meeting on 18 November.

Find out more and sign up at www.torbay.gov.uk/covid-champions.