Rally round to support island in hour of need

The message to pensioners and anyone who feels worried is ‘you are not alone and please ask for help’.

Kate Ferris contacted the Guernsey Press to suggest that the paper starts a page where anyone can publicise for free the support that they can offer to those who are self-isolating, such as delivering shopping and medication.

The page can then connect those in need of a friendly face.

The call to arms was accepted by the Guernsey Press and now anyone can email or call in details outlining what help you can give and to what part of the island.

Emails should be sent to

newsroom@guernseypress.com or call 240237.

Mrs Ferris originally posted her details on social media, but realised that the people in greatest need might not use such websites.

‘A friend commented that it’s fine that people on Facebook can see it, but there might be vulnerable people in Guernsey who don’t use Facebook. So we’ve contacted the Guernsey Press to suggest maybe the Press could also circulate these details because a lot of elderly people get their paper delivered, they could then get details of the people who may be able to help them for shopping, a friendly phone call or any support that somebody might need.

‘I’ve got an 83-year-old mum who lives down at Rocquaine and I’m just aware that she is immediately isolating herself and it struck me that I can help my mum but there might be other elderly people out there who don’t have a daughter who lives just up the road.’

Mrs Ferris said that no one needed to fend for themselves, and it would mean that something positive could come out of the crisis.

‘Do reach out for help, there are lots of people in Guernsey who are willing to help you. I’ve been amazed at the reaction to the support groups set up on Facebook and it’s lovely to see the number of people who want to help, so we need to encourage people to reach out and ask for help. The helpers will probably be meeting somebody locally, and I think once the coronavirus is clear and people are moving around again, it’s still nice to have that contact because there are lots of reasons why elderly people can’t go out.

‘It isn’t just because of the coronavirus, so hopefully it can create long-lasting relationships of support in the community,

‘I think it would be worth doing it on parish lines so if people state which parishes they can help with and then it spreads the help around the island.’

Over-65s in Guernsey who have underlying health issues were advised last week to limit going out, and it is anticipated that over the next few months the over-70s might be told to stay at home for an extended stretch of time.

During this period it is considered vital for elderly and vulnerable people to keep their morale and spirits up, and even just a friendly wave through the window could make all the difference.