In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has launched a ‘Let’s Talk’ service, thanks to funding from NHS Charities Together, to help address loneliness and social isolation.
The brand new Let’s Talk service is available for anyone in the Black Country who is experiencing loneliness or wants to take part in group activities to meet new people, which has been difficult for so many due to the pandemic and lockdown measures.
As the month of winter is here and Christmas is around the corner, it is more important now than ever that everyone stays connected, which is why the service offers a range of virtual and in-person events such as coffee mornings, walking groups and more for anyone to take part in.
One of the service’s clients said: “There were really, really low times and I don't know what I would have done if I didn’t have my weekly phone call from Anne.”
Vicky Harris, Employment and Recovery Operational Manager, commented: “It is fantastic that we are able to support people at Christmas when we know it can be a lonely time for so many and it can have such a big impact on their well-being.”
The Trust also released their latest Mind Over Natter podcast episode focussing on loneliness. Specialists share their top tips and shocking statistics along with all the support and resources available to anyone living across the Black Country. People can tune in via Spotify, Apple Music or via Anchor FM: https://bit.ly/30A5rz6
Anyone that wants to access the service can contact Loneliness and Social Isolation Specialist Anne Harbon via email bchft.letstalk@nhs.net or telephone 07909213184.