Mobile boost for Caring Hands

Elderly residents of St Brelade have been reaping the benefits of modern communications since Caring Hands, a not for profit organisation, took delivery of a mobile phone and mobile broadband connection provided by Sure. The phone and Internet connection is being used to coordinate the Communicare Friendship Club and other services that Caring Hands provides. In addition to the communications equipment, Sure has made a cash donation that will assist the organisation with the administration of its services.

“Mobile broadband from Sure enables users to access the internet easily, wherever they are, this is especially important for the volunteers at Caring Hands as they are often out and about in the community,” says Graham Hughes of Sure. He continued, “for a not for profit organisation, easy access and low costs are vital.”

Colin Taylor, the principal volunteer of Caring Hands, thinks the elderly will really benefit from the service; “Having a mobile phone is now an essential accessory and most people would assume broadband is just for teens and parents getting about. However, it’s also useful for older generations, and will enable those elderly people who want to use our services to contact us directly at any time.”

“I would like to thank Sure for their generous contribution. All our costs are funded by volunteer contributions and donations and it is always a struggle to keep things going.”

The Friendship Club is run solely by dedicated volunteers and helps elderly parishioners of St Brelade. This gives them the opportunity to meet old friends and make new ones in a friendly, homely atmosphere where morning coffee and tea as well as a two course lunch are served. If necessary, members can be transported to the centre by a volunteer driver.

Caring Hands also provides training for people wanting to get a job in caring. A number of unemployed people have been offered the chance to work as a volunteer with the charity. The experience can be put towards gaining care qualifications, and improve their chances of finding employment.

Anyone who thinks that they, a friend or a family member would benefit from the services of Caring Hands should contact Colin Taylor on 07700 333912 / 07797 717497. Alternatively, please contact Toni at the Communicare Friendship Club on 744250. Importantly, Caring Hands does not turn anybody away because of their financial situation.