How network supported those with cystic fibrosis
FOR lifeline charity The Butterfly Trust, ending its services during lockdown just wasn’t an option.
The trust offers valuable support, advice and mentoring for people living with cystic fibrosis and has adapted its services during a time of need.
Given the risks coronavirus posed to those with the chronic lung condition, face-to-face contact had to come to an abrupt end, but it found a way to help people.
Jamie Macfarlane, managing director of Edinburgh-based The Butterfly Trust, said: “We couldn’t just shut down – we had to continue to work through this. Staff have been working from home to provide support for people.”
Given the uncertainty of the early days of lockdown, there have been several calls about concerns over work and finances.
Macfarlane said: “Although we went into lockdown, for the people we deal with their problems didn’t go away. Initially there were concerns over whether people should go to work and while that is something we couldn’t determine for them, we gave them guidance on where they could find out about their rights.
“When lockdown came that issue resolved itself, but there were many others.
“We help access financial support with our usual face-to-face services and we had a number of calls in connection to claiming benefits at this time. We also provide help in accessing everyday things like washing machines or tumble dryers. Someone with cystic fibrosis can’t wait to save up for something like that, but it is a necessity as they can’t have wet washing lying around when they have a lung condition.”
Coming out of shielding on July 31, the trust will be looking at what kind of services it can reintroduce.
Macfarlane added: “We may have to look at continuing remotely for some time and while working with young people can now resume that might not be possible straight away.”
For more on The Butterfly Trust go to www.butterflytrust.org.uk