Ruane welcomes ‘Befriending Scheme’
Sinn Féin MLA Caitriona Ruane has welcomed the announcement that South Down Family Health Initiative (SDFHI) has secured money for a befriending service in Warrenpoint and Rathfriland.
Speaking to Newry Times, Ruane said,“It is important that older people who are ill or incapacitated and without family support have someone they can relate and depend upon. This two year programme will set up a scheme where volunteers will befriend an elderly patient. Their duties will include home visits and transport to and from medical centres as well as encouraging a social aspect of establishing luncheon clubs.”
“This project will give older people the confidence to manage their illness and give them a social outlet as well and has to be welcomed. I hope that this initial two year period can be extended so that it is established as part of the healing process for elderly people who are ill or infirm.”
She added, “I also would like to pay tribute to the many people who give up their time in order to care for others whether it is in this scheme or any other similar scheme.”
Short URL: https://newrytimes.com/?p=21096
Posted by Newry Times News
on Aug 13 2012. Filed under Community.
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