Burgess Hill Helper Army stands down as lockdown restrictions ease

Burgess Hill Helper Army was formed on Facebook by Kieran James and has more than 1,400 members.

The 26-year-old dad-of-three recognised the need early on for food deliveries and practical help for residents who would be isolating. Within just a few days hundreds of people joined the group on Facebook and when Kieran called for volunteers, many signed up.

The group had around 30 core volunteers who distributed food parcels, answered phones, collected prescriptions and offered a ‘buddy’ calling service. 

And hundreds more people also helped via the group’s Facebook page through requests and comments monitored closely by volunteers who ensured the safety of all involved.

Kieran initially set up the Facebook page with someone else and suggested he use his dual SIM phone for a separate helpline number – but the other person stepped down so he appealed for help.

Kieran said: “It has gone really well. In the first few weeks, we had a large number of calls and managed to help with the load for other organisations. I remember one vulnerable gentleman in his 50s called – he was completely isolated but by the end of that week he was with a mental health worker. I also taught him, by phone, to use Battleships on his computer because he normally went to a social club and played lots of board games.

“That was one of the things that filled me with joy. He didn’t have much to be happy about to start with but we sent a food parcel and I recommended he sit back, eat some chocolate and enjoy watching some films.”

Town council leader Robert Eggleston praised the efforts of the volunteers: “I am extremely grateful to the members of our community who stepped up and offered so much of their time to support vulnerable people in the town during this emergency. 

“We are by no means ‘out of the woods’ and many residents will face some serious challenges over the months ahead. It would be wonderful if we could keep this community spirit going so that this sort of voluntary support can continue.”

Councillor Samantha Smith (Dunstall ward), volunteered as a collection and delivery driver, liaising with the foodbank, and secured donations from McDonald’s and the Premier Inn. She said: “Kieran and the team have been an amazing credit to the residents in Burgess Hill and I am certainly proud to be a tiny part of it.”