Delivery service is ‘music to the ears’ of the housebound
THE COVID-19 epidemic has reshaped society in ways that none of us would have even dreamt of a few weeks ago.
The surreal sights of empty town centres at peak times of the day, pubs with their doors closed to the public and empty beaches and parks has now become the norm as people do their part to help stem the spread of the Covid-19.
For elderly people cocooned within their own homes it has been a particularly testing time as they are denied even the most simple of pleasures such as meeting friends over a cup of coffee of a pint or even making a trip to their local shop.
However, Cork County Council have been active in trying to shine a little light into the lives of people through a variety of initiatives such as it’s free COVID -19 Community Call Helpline helpline on 1850 806 819 and the its popular door step book delivery service co-ordinated by the authority’s library department.
Another new initiative rolled out by the council is set to quite literally come as music to the ears of people by offering them the chance to emulate their musical heroes.
If you have always dreamt of leaning to play a musical instrument but did not have either the time or the or opportunity to do so then their ‘A Sound Initiative’ might be just right up your street.
The library department has now added the delivery of musical instruments to their housebound delivery service, loaning out everything from violins, to keyboards, guitars, banjos and ukuleles to members of the public.
County Mayor, Cllr Ian Doyle said learning how to play a musical instrument would serve as a wonderful way for people to stimulate their brains, improve memory and relieve stress.
“Playing music has even been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure, so it’s good for your health and it is fun too. I know how hard cocooning can be on people so it’s important that we look after our mental and physical health more than ever,” he said.
Council chief executive Tim Lucey said the homebound delivery service will be available county-wide for the duration of the pandemic, pointing out that it encompasses more than just the delivery of books and musical instruments.
“If you, or anyone you know, needs help accessing collection or delivery of food, essential household items, fuel, medication or simply needs some non-emergency/non-medical advice or support, please contact our COVID-19 Community Call Helpline, which operates daily from 8am to 8pm, said Mr Lucey.
“I would appeal to anyone who needs support to contact our helpline. We are only a phone call away and ready to help,” he added.
People can also text 085 8709010, email covidsupport@corkcoco.ie or visit www.corkcoco. ie for more information.