Friendly Call Cork is reporting a surge in demand for the service as loneliness and isolation remain significant issues among older people. The free telephone support service operated by Cork City Partnership is seeking new volunteers to help with the 4,000 calls made every month.
The figures have been released following the publication of new research from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) at Trinity College Dublin. The study explored the impacts of social disconnection and its link to a wish to die among older people. Out of the 8,000 people questioned, 4 percent reported feeling they would rather be dead while 10 percent exhibited clinically significant levels of depression.
Friendly Call Cork was established in 2010 in response to the growing concern about loneliness and social isolation among older adults in the community. Volunteers and staff members call clients at a pre-arranged time to check in on them. These calls are usually brief but they can be extended based on the needs of the client.
Clients can self-refer, or they can be referred by family, friends, or healthcare professionals. The service is confidential and is available for older people and anyone feeling lonely, isolated or vulnerable including those who have a chronic illness or who cannot engage in an active way with the local community.
Friendly Call Cork is seeking volunteers to help operate the service. Volunteers are offered flexible working hours and can work from home.
Fiona O’Rourke, support development worker of Friendly Call Cork said: “Loneliness and isolation remain significant issues among older people, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. These feelings can have a profound impact on both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and other health conditions. Cork, like many areas, has seen an increase in the number of older adults living alone, which exacerbates these problems. Friendly Call Cork plays a crucial role in combating this by providing regular social interaction and support to those who need it most.”
Jacqueline Fitzgibbon, Coordinator, Friendly Call Cork added: “The conversations during Friendly Call check-ins can cover a wide range of topics. Common discussions include general well-being, updates on daily activities, concerns about health, and any issues the client might be facing. Sometimes clients just want to chat about their day, discuss local news, or reminisce about their past experiences. The goal is to make the clients feel connected and supported.”
If a call is not answered, the volunteer will phone a member of the client’s family, neighbour or friends. They may also advise on other services available in their locality such as Meals on Wheels, dementia supports, day centres or social events. Friendly Call Cork runs a number of events such as tea parties, social gatherings and an annual Christmas dinner.
Friendly Call Cork also runs a minibus which takes vulnerable people to hospital or other medical appointments. It also assists the local Meals on Wheels with delivery.
Anyone who wishes to avail of the service or who wants to sign up as a volunteer can contact Friendly Call Cork on 021 430 1700 or friendlycall@partnershipcork.
