Call for Glaswegians to care for neighbours
COUNCIL chiefs and charity bosses are calling on people in Glasgow to pull together to care for elderly and vulnerable members of their community during the coronavirus crisis.
The plea comes as grassroots groups are springing up to ensure anyone who is self-isolating has the support and supplies they need.
Government advice is that anyone who exhibits symptoms such as a high temperature or a persistent cough should stay at home for seven days.
And elderly people, who are most vulnerable to falling seriously ill due to coronavirus, are encouraged to take extra care to avoid coming into contact with the virus.
A spokeswoman for Glasgow City Council said: “Our experienced home care staff will continue to aid and support some of our most vulnerable citizens in line with current advice. We would urge local communities to look out for any of their relatives and neighbours who might need additional help if they need to stay at home and alert the relevant service if they feel anyone is at risk.”
A group set up on Facebook to help neighbours, the Southside Self-Isolation Support Group, already has around 800 members.
It is calling on anyone who is at low risk from the virus to help deliver supplies to those self-isolating.
Organisers are also providing support for people feeling lonely so will call or video call via Skype, Facetime, WhatsApp or Skype.
A spokeswoman for the group, which sprung up on the Battlefield Community Project page, said: “Our group grew from just Battlefield to cover the whole of the South Side in a matter of hours and we’re amazed and encouraged by the enthusiasm and generosity of spirit the community has shown so far.”
The Facebook group is at www. facebook.com/groups/SouthsideSIS and admins can be contacted at southsidesishelpers@gmail.com.
Age Scotland is encouraging people to check on older relatives and neighbours and said it is urging anyone with questions to call its helpline.
Brian Sloan, chief executive of Age Scotland, said: “We are aware that some older people are opting to stay at home, rather than take part in regular social activities, even though they have no symptoms.
“While this is entirely reasonable, prolonged loss of social contact can lead to loneliness and isolation, which isn’t good for the health and wellbeing of older people.
“Our free helpline – 0800 12 44 222 – is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
“We would also encourage people to check in on older relatives, friends and neighbours who might be grateful for a visit or a phone call.
THE Country 2 Country musical festival at the SSE Hydro was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The venue looked deserted as signs were displayed outside explaining that the event was off. It was due to take place last night.
The festival’s shows in London and Dublin were also postponed.
“If an older person does not use the internet but wants to avoid busy supermarkets, perhaps offer to help them with an online shop, or pick up their medication.
“Sometimes just popping in to share a cup of tea can turn someone’s day around.
“Being a good neighbour can bring communities together and help older people feel less alone.”
Meanwhile, Glasgow’s Golden Generation is still keeping its daycare centres open but is looking into ways to support its members should the centres close.
The group has, however, postponed its Dementia Friendly Comedy Show due to take place in its Fred Paton Day Care Centre on March 18 as part of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival because of the potential impact of the coronavirus.
The show will be rescheduled and those with questions should call 0141 221 9924.