Banishing lockdown loneliness

Eileen, a supported housing tenant from St Deny’s, decided to inject some fun into lockdown and help keep people active with a daily online fancy dress home workout.

“Over 8 weeks I made 50 exercise videos and I donned a different costume each day!” Eileen told us. “I really enjoyed thinking up new ideas and my husband Ken did a terrific job as cameraman. The videos seem to have inspired lots of other people who were stuck at home and I’ve received lovely comments from folks all over the country and even as far as the USA!"

Meanwhile, over in Holyrood, council tenant Lynda volunteered as a telephone befriender and with local charity Communicare to provide contact and much-needed companionship for those isolating at home.

Lynda said: “I started feeling useless as I was in the band that was asked to stay in. I am usually really active, so volunteering in this role is a great way to contribute to my local community. Regular telephone chats provide a real lifeline for those who live alone and can’t get out at the moment and really help these vulnerable people to feel connected.”

Let us know how you’ve been keeping busy at home during the lockdown or post on our Facebook page. And if you want to volunteer to help others at this time visit Southampton Voluntary Services for details of how you can lend a hand.

If you or someone you know is experiencing loneliness, the council and our community partners can provide the following support:

• So:Linked – the online database of community links lists a variety of help, guidance and services by postcode. There’s also a list of ‘things to do’ to help ease boredom at home. 
• Communicare – the good neighbours befriending scheme supports those who are lonely or housebound. It has over 150 telephone partnerships, with calls typically taking place once a week. 
• Southampton Living Well – offers daytime activities for older people. Despite having to close because of Covid-19, the hubs continue to provide support including phone calls and checking in on people at home (from a safe distance).
• Southampton Timebank - offers reciprocal support and social activities. Since lockdown began volunteers have offered their time with shopping, helping to get medications and phoning people in isolation. 
• Love Southampton - social support including befriending and practical support that can be accessed online.