YORKIND – Social Isolation Support Centre Launched
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Published: Monday, 30 March 2020 at 12:57:38 PM
At this unprecedented time of increased measures relating to COVID-19 many people are asking how they can help. The YORKIND project has been launched to provide a connection between those wanting to help and those at high risk of being affected by the threats of COVID-19.
Shire President Cr Denese Smythe explains “A number of individuals and active community groups have contacted me to express concern for our more vulnerable residents who would be impacted most by the social isolation measures. It was clear that many people wanted to help and we saw the opportunity for the Shire to coordinate people able to help, with those most needing help”.
The YORKIND Social Isolation Support Centre will provide assistance to members of the community facing challenges and increasing social isolation due to COVID-19.
Both community helpers and those who are vulnerable and needing assistance can register easily via an online form on the Shire’s website and Facebook page or by calling 9641 1301. The forms enable community helpers to indicate how they can help – whether it’s helping someone with their grocery shopping, dog walking or a simple phone call so people who are isolating feel less alone. Those identifying as vulnerable can indicate what assistance they need and the Shire will then match them and details are exchanged.
Community helpers are urged to remember that COVID-19 is contagious and to take every precaution to ensure everyone’s safety. A pledge is signed by community helpers to assure confidentiality, no face to face contact and no exchange of money or credit card details takes place.
Chris Linnell, Shire of York Chief Executive Officer says “We are all practising social distancing, and while we fully support this measure to minimise infections, we are concerned about the impact of social isolation and increased loneliness on our community. The YORKIND initiative aims to address this need”.
For more info: https://www.york.wa.gov.au/community/your-community/yorkind.aspx
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