Newark and Sherwood CVS to launch Listening Line telephone befriending service for those isolated during coronavirus lockdown restrictions
A new telephone befriending service is being launched by Newark and Sherwood CVS to help combat isolation and loneliness among vulnerable residents during the coronavirus restrictions.
The Listening Line pilot project is funded by Newark and Sherwood District Council.
The new service is run by volunteers. People who are referred to the service will receive a weekly phone call to see how they are, and have a friendly chat.
The service is available for people who feel isolated and vulnerable. Calls will take place between Mondays and Fridays at a mutually convenient time, but not at weekends or late at night.
Listening Line is another addition to the services provided by Newark and Sherwood CVS as part of its recent work in response to the coronavirus outbreak. During this time the organisation has supported more than 500 people.
Tracy Parr, the Listening Line co-ordinator, said: “Many of our residents are cut off from their usual social activities and groups because of covid-19.
“Regardless of whether they are self-isolating or just social distancing, this can be very lonely for them.
“Listening Line is designed to help residents through this difficult time and promote well-being.”
Volunteers are trained and reference-checked. They will treat what people tell them in strict confidence and will not share details with anyone outside Newark and Sherwood CVS.
Volunteers include Gerry and Jon Hickman, who moved to Newark from Doncaster last year to be nearer family.
Jon made his first Listening Line call yesterday, and Gerry’s first will be next week.
Recently retired, they have been volunteering with CVS throughout the pandemic, shopping for people who were self-isolating.
“We really feel we are blessed, with our family and our health, and this is a wonderful chance to give something to the community,” Gerry said.
“It is a small commitment to give up half an hour or so to speak to someone who might not see anyone all day.”
She said that, as newcomers to Newark, it would also help her and Jon to get to know people in the area.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Listening Line service, or who would like to sign up for it, should call 07535 134032 or go to ListeningLine@nandscvs.org.
