Dorset Council and key partners are working to together to make sure residents can get help to continue to live independently in their homes.
Volunteers from Age UK North South & West Dorset make calls to vulnerable people and, with consent, can refer them to the Dorset Council’s reablement services.
The council has asked volunteer ‘befrienders’ to help spot the signs that a person may have become more frail or likely to fall because of their reduced ability to exercise and keep active in the wake of COVID-19.
The volunteers, working on behalf of Age UK North, South & West Dorset, are being asked to listen out for key words and phrases which describe the feelings of the person they help, such as:
- ‘frail’
- ‘weaker’
- ‘less balanced’
- ‘likely to fall’
as these indicate the person will benefit from help to get more active.
They will also ask the person they befriend if they have noticed changes in their mobility since the start of the coronavirus outbreak. And if they have been able to complete their usual day-to-day activities such as leisure activities or housework.
If the answer is yes to any of these questions, the befriender can ask the vulnerable person if they consent to being referred to the reablement services on offer from the council’s care provider Tricuro.
There is no charge for this service and a wide variety of support is on offer. From information and guidance, to practical support such as equipment to improve independence and increase confidence at home.
Cllr Laura Miller, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health said:
“COVID-19 has disrupted many people’s routines, including their exercise patterns, and for elderly or vulnerable people this can quickly have an impact on their ability to stay active and independent.
By referring people to our reablement services, the befrienders are making it more likely Dorset’s vulnerable residents can remain in their own homes and avoid going into hospital or other care settings.”
Dave Thorp, CEO of Age UK North, South & West Dorset said:
“This is a simple yet effective way of reducing the impact of self-isolation on isolated and vulnerable older people, and the demand it places on local health and care services.
“Together with Dorset Council, and other partner agencies, we want to ensure older people can continue to live independently and safely for as long as they are able and want to do so.
“Our staff and volunteers make friendly calls to vulnerable people on a regular basis and, with their consent, can take that support one step further by putting them in touch with Tricuro’s reablement services.”
Volunteers still needed
We need volunteers who can support vulnerable residents. If you have an up-to-date DBS check and would like to offer your support, you can register online.
Do you need help?
If you don’t have family, friends or a support network that can help you get the things you need we can help you. Let us know the support you need by completing our online form.
Alternatively, you can call us on 01305 221000, 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
