Age Cymru launches helpline to tackle loneliness

Age Cymru Friend in Need — The new ‘Friend in Need’ helpline will connect people over the age of 70 with a trained volunteer once a week.

Older people’s charity Age Cymru has launched a new ‘Friend in Need’ telephone friendship service to help tackle loneliness.

The new service offers support to people aged 70 and above who may feel lonely or isolated as a result of social distancing, self-isolation and shielding.

The service will offer older people the opportunity to connect with a trained volunteer for a free weekly friendship call.

The scheme is funded by the Welsh Government and has launched to coincide with the start of Volunteering Week.

The initiative will also support friends or neighbours who are providing informal help to older people and others who are social distancing.

Age Cymru said it has made more than 10,000 calls to older people who are lonely and isolated since the start of lockdown, and handled more than 3,000 enquiries to its advice line.

Victoria Lloyd, the charity’s chief executive, said: “There are many older people living in our communities for whom feeling lonely or isolated is nothing new. Giving people the chance to connect, to share their concerns, to chat and to laugh with another human being can be a huge source of comfort.

“Many people aged 75 or over do not use the internet so a telephone-based service is important to help keep them connected and feel less isolated”

Julie Morgan, Welsh deputy minister for health and social services, said: “These are challenging times for us all, but especially for those older people who live on their own. It’s only natural to want to have contact with others; without it we can feel lonely and cut off.

“I’m delighted that the Welsh Government has been able to provide funding for this crucial service. I am sure it will be make a big difference to the lives of all those who access it.”

People who wish to use the service, or know somebody who may benefit from it, can contact Age Cymru for more information on 08000 223 444 or visit their website.

People who wish to volunteer as a telephone befriender can register at Volunteering Wales.