Our new Keep in Touch Support Service is a telephone-based service that is designed for anyone who is shielding or self-isolating. You can now receive a regular phone call to chat with one of our volunteers about absolutely anything, for as long as this situation goes on.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we have become aware that a growing number of people in our community are experiencing an increased sense of isolation, particularly those who are shielding. There has been a great deal of news coverage surrounding the impact that this can have on our mental and emotional wellbeing.
With this in mind, we have been looking at the ways we can adapt our services, to better meet the needs of our community during these unprecedented times. We hope this will go someway to helping.
Who is this service for?
This service is for individuals and carers who are shielding or self-isolating and would like some extra contact. You can now receive a call every week, to see how you are getting on and talk about anything you want.
What will happen?
Our volunteer will arrange to make the call at an agreed time on a regular basis: every week, fortnight or month. It is up to you to decide how often you would like to be contacted. Calls will last for around 25 minutes.
How do I get in touch?
If you or someone you care for wishes to use the service, please call our main number on 020 3893 5998 or email info@sruk.co.uk.
We will ask a few questions about you and your experience of scleroderma and Raynaud's, and obtain permission to contact you.
Our Keep In Touch volunteer will get in touch, to arrange a convenient time to set up the call.
Alternatively, if you are a Rheumatology Nurse Specialist and would like to refer someone interested in using the service, please contact our main number on: 020 3893 5998. Please confirm with our volunteer the person you are referring has agreed to be contacted by the volunteer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't make my time slot?
If you do have to miss the call then please do let us know, since otherwise your telephone friend may be worried about whether or not you are OK. We can try to reschedule for another time during the week.
Is it safe?
We want to make sure everything is safe and secure. All our volunteers have successfully completed our recruitment process and training programme.
Will I have to give out my personal telephone number?
Yes, only for the specific purpose of this phone call. To comply with legal requirements (DPA & GDPR) and for safeguarding reasons, your phone number will be stored and recorded appropriately. We ask that you do not share any personal information such as your address and other contact details with your telephone friend.
What if I don't want to talk for as long as 25 minutes, or I want to talk longer?
This is only used as a guide for the length of a call. If you talk for less time or for a bit longer than 25 minutes, that is fine.
Will my number or personal details be used outside the call?
We will only use your email address and telephone number to contact you about your weekly call.
Is the Keep in Touch Service suitable for everyone?
Keep in Touch may not be suitable for people with memory loss, dementia or mental health issues, who require higher level support. These conditions may affect the person's ability to build a telephone friendship with the volunteer and in some instances, people with these conditions may actually find the calls more distressing. Please contact us if you would like any more information.