Your Letters: November 27

ADVICE AVAILABLE IN WINTER GUIDE

As we head further into the colder months and are layering up our winter woollies, I would like to share with readers the support that’s available through Royal Voluntary Service.

We’ve found through research that at this time of year, unfortunately, feelings of isolation and loneliness can increase significantly, which can impact our health and wellbeing. 

We want to be there for as many people as possible this winter, and so together with our friends at Yakult, we have created the Stay Safe, Warm and Well guide,  filled with essential information, practical tips, and advice.

The guide also encourages us all to make sure we are socially connected and have support in place as we face the difficulties the season can bring.

The guide includes details on how readers can sign up for Royal Voluntary Service’s telephone support services, which match volunteers who are available for a friendly chat, with people across the country who are looking to make new connections, share a story or a joke, and ease feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also shares information on accessing the charity’s Virtual Village Hall online community of events and activities.

The impact of social connection and having someone to turn to for support and conversation cannot be overstated, and we even found that 42% of those who receive telephone support from our volunteers say they visit their GP less.