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Identifying the impact isolation can have on those experiencing homelessness, Simon Community in Newry have introduced new initiatives over the past month to keep clients entertained and in contact with friends and family during lockdown.
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One successful initiative taking place in Newry and 20 other temporary accommodation projects is the introduction of isolation and resilience packs – made possible thanks to generous emergency COVID funding from Crisis, PBNI, LandAid, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Enkalon Foundation and Tesco’s Bags of Hope.
The packs, which are developed in response to each project’s specific need, include items such as TVs, computer games, tablets, arts and craft supplies and mobile phone top up cards. The idea behind the initiative is to encourage individuals experiencing homelessness to remain onsite and socially distant by providing alternative ways for residents to keep in touch with family as well as combat their boredom.
Speaking of the initiative, Jim Dennison, Chief Executive at Simon Community commented: “For someone experiencing homelessness, existing feelings of anxiety and worry can be heightened during a time when they are being asked to further isolate from society, remain on housing waiting lists for longer and manage an already limited benefits budget differently. Thankfully, during such an unsettling time, Simon Community services and frontline workers are present to provide support, advice and a friendly face to those who need it most. These isolation packs are a further tool to help ease the stresses and pressures associated with homelessness.”
Explaining the impact that the isolation packs have made at the charity’s Newry project, Marianne McCaul, Accommodation Manager said: “These packs are a godsend to our residents. They have been in lockdown for weeks now and we have been trying hard to keep residents busy, but these resources mean they can pass the time better. The mood in the hostel has lifted considerably and the residents don’t feel so isolated from the rest of society."
One resident at the charity’s temporary accommodation project in Newry spoke of the importance of the packs in helping her keep in touch with her mother who she hasn’t been able to see since the beginning of lockdown: “I can’t believe I have been gifted a tablet. It is a lifeline to me as I have not seen my family in weeks but have been able to Zoom and speak to my mother. I am so happy right now that people care enough to make this happen. Thanks you!"
To find out how you can support your local Simon Community project and help provide shelter and support for those who need it most, visit www.simoncommunity.org
