In the face of Covid-19 our communities are experiencing unprecedented change and challenges. We are adjusting to a new world; a world of social distancing where information changes quickly.
To support the most vulnerable in our communities to manage with this adjustment, Bishop Auckland-based organisation Bridge Creative, along with DAD (Darlington Association on Disability) and Include In Autism have introduced a new, over the phone support service covering the whole of County Durham – ‘Keeping People Connected.’
‘Keeping People Connected’ has been set up to support people who have, or may have, learning disability and/or autism during the outbreak of Covid-19 and is being co-ordinated by the North East & Cumbria Learning Disability Network and Inclusion North.
‘Keeping People Connected’ provides an over the phone service that connects those in need of support with an experienced, friendly and specialist professional.
Vulnerable members of our communities will be able to reach out to ask questions, to share their experiences, to have a conversation and to connect with a reliable, trustworthy and experienced member of staff.
Bridge Creative has recently launched a ‘Keeping Connected’ Facebook group and video call service offering people another way to stay connected. The Facebook group is closely monitored and offers a safe place for friends to socialise online with regular daily updates with things to do at home and group conversations.
Staff are supporting people to take part in daily group video calls via Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp so that people can keep in touch and do activities with their friends via video call.
Ben Tinkler, one of the directors of Bridge Creative said ‘the project launched last week and this week we’ve put out our first timetable of group video calls, there’ll be one every day, Monday-Saturday at 4pm. We’ve supported people by video call to take part in exercise and dance sessions so far and will be having a quiz night later in the week. We’re open to suggestions too.’
The Network, Inclusion North and organisations delivering Keeping People Connected across the North East and Cumbria have been supporting people with learning disability over many years. We know that vulnerable people can struggle in normal times; in times of pandemic these struggles can magnify hugely.
Bridge Creative are working with Local Authorities and CCGs to identify and provide support to vulnerable adults. By working together, we will support those who need help during this difficult time.
‘Keeping People Connected’ provides a safe, reliable and friendly outlet for vulnerable people; connecting through regular calls and conversation, the service brings those who are feeling isolated connection and support.
If you or someone you know may benefit from the service or you are an organisation supporting people with learning disabilities and/or autism, you can speak with someone at Bridge Creative by calling 01388 449410 from 10am-4pm Monday-Saturday, or email hello@bridgecreative.org
