Calderwood team offer lifeline support

The Calderwood Sporting Memories group have adapted how they reach out to members during the lockdown.

The group, who usually run free weekly sessions at the Moncreiff Parish Church, help the elderly, those living with dementia, or those living in isolation.

However, they have had to move away from the support network they have built in town.

Organiser Yvonne Friel said:“Some of the guys who attend are living with dementia or have mobility issues, living in isolation or may have mental health issues.

“Attending the club each week helps the guys confidence to grow, it is lovely to witness.

“With the men attending weekly this gives carers some well deserved respite for a couple of hours.

“They are happy just knowing that their loved one is having a great time and is being looked after within a comfortable safe environment.”

She continued:“During this difficult time we are in at present, Sporting Memories are adapting how we reach out to our members.

“We are in contact with all our community members on a weekly telephone call and informing members and their families of what is on offer online at Sporting Memories to keep them updated.

“We also offer support in any way we can, and if needed we sign post to relevant parties if/when required.

“We also provide club members one-to-one Sporting Memories Reminiscing telephone calls from our volunteers. We are in the process of setting up Sporting Memories Zoom conferences and this can be one-toone or a group of a few people.

“Most of our members are at a certain age and do not own computers or laptops or even mobile phones.

“This is just one hurdle we will overcome with the help of family members.”