PMH Cares is a community led group of neighbours helping neighbours, connecting those in need of a helping hand with those in their local area who are ready and willing to offer their assistance.

The development of the program has been overseen by the Community Wellbeing sub group of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council's COVID-19 Recovery Working Group.

Initially established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic home isolation requirements, PMH Cares will be an invaluable resource for those who may be considered vulnerable or at risk of social exclusion or isolation.

Whether in times of disaster or pandemic, or the 'new normal', the intent is to continue to program for the foreseeable future, including in times of stability, to ensure a connected community.

While PMH Cares is community led, council is coordinating its establishment and facilitating initial connections between Neighbourhood Champions and those seeking help.

It is expected that PMH Cares will provide practical help, such as pick up and delivery of shopping, running errands, picking up medication from the chemist, posting letters, setting up video calls, walking the dog, taking out the bins, or even just visiting a neighbour to have a chat over a cuppa.

Council's group manager community, Lucilla Marshall said the program will be an invaluable resource for all residents to reconnect including the vulnerable, older and younger people and those with compromised health.

"PMH Cares is intended to build small 'neighbourhoods' of people connecting with people. It's a way to unite those who are keen to give a helping hand with those who need that help," Ms Marshall said.

Jane Evans, adjunct senior lecturer at Charles Sturt University and chair of council's community wellbeing sub group said physical distancing does not have to mean social isolation and shut down does not have to mean shut out.

"Let's help one another become more connected than ever and build ongoing neighbourhood connections," Ms Evans said.

Council is in the early stages of developing the initiative and is currently inviting people throughout the Port Macquarie-Hastings who are interested in getting involved, to register their interest as participants or Neighbourhood Champions.

Interested community volunteers will be asked to identify areas they may be able to provide assistance, as well as identifying those who may need help.

"PMH Cares will reignite those old-fashioned community values of looking after your neighbours, providing connection, support, and that true sense of 'community'," Ms Marshall said.

For more information about registering with PMH Cares as a volunteer, including becoming a Neighbourhood Champion, call Council on 02 6581 8111 or visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/pmhcares.

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