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Last week the lock down restrictions for those shielding (over 70’s and those with health issues) started to be relaxed allowing people to meet one other person outside their household for walks (socially distanced). I have been able to review my client list to see who would fall into this category and have started to contact people who might like to meet up for a local walk and some face to face company. It has been nice to see people in person again rather than just speaking to them on the phone.

I am sure in due course more guidelines will be issued to enable people to move around more freely, but until then lets keep safe and enjoy some limited freedom.

Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care (SCCCC) have set up a pen pal scheme during the Coronavirus lock down to support people that are isolated.

I think its a great idea to start writing letters again to those we love and miss, or to someone we don’t know to brighten their day. After all you can read a letter over and over, whereas a phone call finishes and that’s an end to it. I have done my first letter.

Letters can be posted to:

Pen Pal Scheme – SCCCC Unit 19, President Buildings, Saville Street East, Sheffield S4 7UQ.

Why not give it a go?

This is the fourth week of lock-down. It has been a surreal time for most people getting used to being at home most of the time. I can’t help but think of the number of people, for whom this is normal life being restricted to going out either by age or disability of some sort. I think we do adapt to a quieter life style once we have had to live it for a while, but sometimes its the loneliness that takes over our thoughts.

There is no substitute for physically being with someone and talking to them and seeing their facial expressions, but at least with modern technology there is Skype ad Zoom to connect people. For those without modern technology the good old fashioned phone call can at least keep you connected with friends and family.

Many people however, are on their own without people to support them, and that is when Treasured Time can step in and be the friend at the end of the phone, and in due course when the lock-down is lifted we can meet in person and strengthen our connection. So don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and give me a call.

 

It is a difficult time for many older people advised to maintain social distancing from friends and family.

I am contacting all my clients to agree what they would like to do in this period of isolation. Some can receive phone calls instead of visits, other visits may need to be postponed. Where relatives are particularly concerned about how their relative is managing, and may need some assistance with meals etc, I can maintain visits. If this is the case I will take extra precautions on hygiene and distance, and obviously not go if either myself or the client has any symptoms of the virus.

I can do additional phone calls where this is felt to be of help, and also go to the supermarket for clients to get supplies in. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me on 07890 134 656.

Lunch clubs enable older people across the city to make long lasting friendships,
share good food and enjoy interesting activities. They are friendly and supportive
groups, predominately run by volunteers with a desire to give something back to their
local community. Costs are minimal to attend.

You can find out more online at Sheffield Directory (see link) or by looking out for
notices in local shops and libraries.

https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/home/social-care/lunch-clubs.html