LOUTH PEOPLE URGED TO USE FRIEND SERVICE
The government has announced a new befriending phone-call initiatve as part of the measures to support older people during the Covid-19 pandemic and this is available to all those on the Senior Alert Scheme.
Local TD Fergus O’Dowd is encouraging the 1,222 Louth participants in the scheme to ensure their personal alarm is activated.
Deputy O’Dowd said: ‘As part of the measures to support older people during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government has announced a new befriending phone-call initiative for those on the Seniors Alert Scheme.’
The initiative, which was announced by Minister Michael Ring, will be funded by his Department of Rural and Community Development, and will be operated in conjunction with POBAL and ALONE.
‘ The Seniors Alert Scheme is designed to provide peace of mind and local assistance to older people, so it is well placed to be used for this new initiative to support people who may be struggling during the COVID-19 period,’ he added.
‘1222 older people are signed up to the Seniors Alert Scheme in County Louth and I encourage them to check their personal alarm is activated at this time.
‘ Test your alarm to ensure it is working. You will then receive a call back from your monitoring provider or local community group. They will ask if you would like to avail of a befriending call service through ALONE.’
Deputy O’Dowd went on to say it is really positive to
ALONE involved in this initiative as they have the nationwide capacity to provide this service and are well attuned to the needs of older people give the valuable work they already do in the community.
The ALONE Helpline can also be contacted on 0818 222 024.