Help is at hand if you are isolated and lonely

THIS letter is in response to your recent article on elderly suicide.

The aim of our service is to help alleviate rural and social isolation and loneliness, to recover independence rather than a dependence on our service, and help reintegrate people back into their own community. It is free of charge and is run in conjunction with FÁS through a community employment scheme.

All our staff are trained in occupational first aid, communications, ASIST, Elder Abuse and Manual Handling and Patient moving. We call on people in their own homes for a chat, a game of cards or just to listen. We will organise social events where people with common interests can meet up or accompany people on journeys outside the house.

The scheme began in October 2010 with training and the visitation service began in January 2011. It is offered in the Ballyhoura area, with offices in Churchtown, Co Cork and Hospital, Co Limerick. If there is anyone who feels they would benefit from our service, please contact us.

Michelle Gleeson

Ballyhoura Rural Service Ltd

Mallow

Co Cork