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Press Release |
BeConnected is reconnecting!
An award-winning project aimed at tackling loneliness and isolation in and around Staffordshire has launched a fresh programme of Covid-safe events.
Throughout the pandemic BeConnected has stayed in touch with all those older people who attended BeConnected activities before lockdown,checking on their wellbeing.
Based on these conversations, BeConnected is stepping up to help people engage with others in different ways.
Led by Care Plus the project usually holds face-to-face events for customers in Stafford and surrounding areas, but now it's encouraging them to take part in an exciting programme of group activities by telephone.
Project coordinator, Alison Poole, explained: "Clearly many BeConnected customers are particularly vulnerable to Covid-19 and it would not be safe for them to get together, even in small groups.
"However, reassurance calls made by the project team and volunteers over the past few months have proved extremely popular and we decided to expand the idea and organise a series of group chats and games that can be played over the telephone."
Activities planned over the coming weeks include games and quizzes. Every Monday afternoon, BeConnected customers can brush up their craft skills with a conference call based around activity packs sent out by post.
"There are also plenty of opportunities to just chat on the phone over a cup of tea or coffee with friends old and new," Alison said.
The group chats for up to 20 people are easy to join and, for those who've already registered as part of the project, there's no need to book in advance. The first round of activities took place earlier this month and were a huge hit with new and existing customers.
Monika, who lives in Stone, took part in many BeConnected events pre-lockdown, and said she is excited at the prospect of reconnecting with friends over the telephone.
"All the activities I've taken part in have been wonderful and I've really missed them over the last few months," she said. "Now at least we can all get together over the telephone and have a little fun, I'll certainly be dialling in!"
BeConnected was launched in 2017 by Stafford and Rural Homes (SARH), with the help of Stafford Borough Council. SARH and Care Plus are part of Housing Plus Group, together with South Staffordshire Housing Association, Severnside Housing and Severn Homes.
The project is supported byThe National Lottery Community Fund, which is enabling BeConnectedto look at new ways of helping customers connect with each other, whilst staying safe.
Elizabeth Lodge, head of community wellbeing services at Care Plus, which is also part of Housing Plus Group, added: "During these uncertain times, it's more important than ever that people can maintain contact with the outside world. Once again, BeConnected has risen to the challenge to help people who otherwise might be isolated and alone.
"The range of activities offered and the social interaction provided are a lifeline to many, providing a real boost to both mental and physical health."
A full programme of events, along with details on how to take part, can be found atwww.sarh.co.uk/beconnected
ENDS
Background for editors
The personal care service delivered by Care Plus has been assessed as Good in all areas by the Care Quality Commission.
Further information
Mara Hargreaves
Head of marketing and communications
m:07800 619 863
e:mara.hargreaves@housingplusgroup.co.uk
Clare Chick
Marketing and communications officer
m: 07950 254 279
e:clare.chick@housingplusgroup.co.uk
Martin Farrow
CHANGEWORKS Communications
t: + 44 (0) 1785 247588
m: +44 (0)7771 970025
e:mfarrow@changeworkscom.co.uk