The charity has a membership of 235 active older adults. About 180 of those members attend one or more weekly meetings that are hosted at four centres around the island to enjoy cards, bingo, group conversation and activities.
In light of the evolving situation and serious nature of the coronavirus for older adults, a decision has been made to suspend the Age Concern Guernsey group meetings and support members at home.
The door-to-door service which provides group transport to and from meetings using five minibuses will also be stopping temporarily.
Chairman of Age Concern David Inglis said: ‘We had hoped to be able to continue to run our centres. However, in recent days it has become apparent that the number of members who wish to use our transport and come along to meetings has decreased.
‘This is an indication to us that we need to think differently and change to suit the exceptional circumstances that we all find ourselves in as a result of this global pandemic.’
He said it has been important and necessary to balance the impact of suspending the meetings with the potential effects of social isolation during any prolonged period of social separation.
‘Our decision is informed by Public Health advice issued by the States of Guernsey and our next steps will take into careful consideration the needs and interests of our older adult members.’
Further and ongoing discussions will take place with the charity’s volunteers so that some social contact can continue whilst ensuring good hygiene practices and minimum risk to everyone involved.
‘At this early stage, plans for preventing the effects of social isolation will need to be developed further.
‘It has been necessary to take the decision to suspend our group meetings for the immediate future. However, we will be looking at ways of keeping in touch and maintaining reasonable and appropriate levels of contact with any members who would benefit most from continued services.’
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