Rathcoole volunteers support community during lockdown

Volunteers at Listening Ear have been supporting residents.

The area has lost members of the community to the virus, people have been in lockdown and issues such as social isolation and anxiety have increased. Families in the estate have lost jobs and incomes.

Members of Listening Ear, based in the Dunanney Centre, have played an active role in supporting and assisting the community during this time.

Detailimg the group’s efforts, a spokesperson for the organisation said: “To support mental health and suicide prevention an out of hours helpline has been launched to allow for an empathic ear to be available when someone needs it.

Food hampers have been distributed to vulnerable residents.

“This service was supported by donations from a member of the community in memory of his late grandmother and Cllr Robert Foster. Listening Ear has also installed a new voip phone system which has allowed us to launch a telephone calling service for those wanting support and assistance while impacted by anxiety, depression, PTSD, social isolation and postnatal depression.

“These calls can be scheduled for daily, weekly or monthly and as always with Listening Ear is confidential.

“A lot of members of the community have been impacted by job losses, the loss of income and the furlough scheme. The Listening Ear office volunteers have been able to assist and support these individuals and families with Universal Credit claims.”

The spokesperson added: “Listening Ear has taken a lead role in the supply and distribution of emergency food hampers to individuals and families. These hampers have been funded via Rathcoole Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership.

“The supply of these hampers has ensured that food was available when needed. In addition to the emergency food hampers Listening Ear has worked closely with Cathy Hall, Deprivation Officer, in the organising and weekly distribution of 180 DFC hampers and frozen meals in the area.

“These hampers and meals are delivered by 20 volunteer drivers, all of whom provide their time, cars and fuel free of charge. It is positive to see volunteers coming from local football clubs, bands, Orange Lodges, churches, community groups, councillors and individuals from the community all working together to ensure that those in need receive this support.

“Another role Listening Ear has been able to support on is assisting the local pharmacy. We have delivered prescriptions and volunteered for the door to free staff up for counter work.”

If you require any of these services, contact Listening Ear via 02895085934 or [email protected]

Information can also be found on www.listeningear.co.uk, the Listening Ear Newtownabbey Facebook page or on Twitter: @listeningear9.

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