Calls to Ferns BFriendly group have increased since Covid-19 crisis began

CALLS TO the Ferns BFriendly group have increased since the coronavirus gripped the country.

One of those involved with the organisation, Mary Gethings, spoke to this newspaper about the group which offers support to people living in the Ferns area who may experience feelings of isolation.

‘ There has been an increase in calls from people in the general area over the last week or two,’ said Mary, when asked if interaction with the group has changed since the current crisis hit the country.

‘ There are people who feel isolated and alone but we are lucky here because there are good people doing a lot of good work,’ said Mary.

‘ There has definitely been an increase in the number of people contacting the group,’ she added.

She praised organisations like the local GAA club and other community groups, whose members are doing their best for their respective communities especially for those who are in danger of feeling isolated.

Ferns BFriendly was launched in the Courtyard restaurant in July last year by the Chairperson of Wexford County Council, Cllr Michael Sheehan.

Run by a team of volunteers, the aim of the group is to make a positive change in the lives of people living in the area, especially older residents. The volunteers give their time each week to talk and listen to people who are experiencing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Obviously, in the current crisis there is an even greater need for such services and while the principal aim of the group is to provide companionship, if the volunteers identify a need in a person that is not being met, they pass the matter on to a designated point of contact.

In addition to Ferns, the group provides its service for older people in nearby areas such as Clologue, Camolin and Ballyduff.

The volunteers offer a regular weekly phone call at times that suit the service users. Referrals to the service can be made by individuals themselves or by family members, neighbours, health agencies and social services.

A goal of the volunteers is to make sure that each service user has a befriender with whom they have a shared interest.

All volunteers with Ferns BFriendly are garda-vetted and reference checked.

To find out more about the group or to avail of the service, contact 087 1691919 or info@fernsbfriendly.ie