Major milestone for Warwick and Leamington Covid-19 Mutual Aid group

The Warwick and Leamington Covid-19 Mutual Aid Group recently hit a major milestone.

Last Friday, the five-month old organisation made its 2000th support call to a local person in need of a compassionate voice and a friendly ear.

Vicky Barrow was the volunteer making that landmark call, and she’s amazed at the success of the service and the difference that she and her colleagues are making.

Virtually immobile after major spinal and hip surgery and unable to volunteer for shopping or pharmacy deliveries, Vicky has been contributing via the Phone Pals service.

“There are so many lonely and isolated people out there, and what is surprising is that they can be any age and from any sort of background", said Vicky.

"Whilst the pandemic has shone a light on this problem, there is no doubt that this is a different kind of disease, that can affect anybody in our community at any time, and often does.”

The recipient of the 2000th call is a case in point - a young man, new to the area, with no family or friends nearby.

Vicky added: “Many people lack confidence and struggle to make friends.

"At this difficult time, without a social network, it’s easy to fall through the gap, especially if you are working from home or unemployed.

“I look forward to making every call – it’s great to be able to make a difference.”

Leamington-based Kathie Johnson, another member of the Phone Pals team, works from home and fits her volunteering around her other commitments.

She said: “Every call is like an Aladdin’s cave of memory and recollection.

"Depending on the client, I may hear first-hand experiences of World War II, gain new insights into local history or get great gardening tips from green-fingered folk eager to share their know-how.

"I’ve been truly touched by their stories, as well as amused and entertained, and it goes without saying, have also been the grateful recipient of many cherished family recipes.”

Phone Pals’ 50-strong team help brighten the day of around 40 Leamington and Warwick residents with more than 100 calls every week.

If anyone would like to speak to one of the team, call 01926 674065 or go to www.warwickleamingtoncovidhelp.co.uk