Today we hear from Theresa, one of our volunteer who normally runs Movie Night, Craft groups and helps out in the office, who this week has been making calls as part of our member’s wellbeing check.

“We’ve been calling you all to check how you’re doing, to make sure you have enough food and supplies, have support in place, and to tell you about our upcoming online and phone sessions.

We are doing our best to contact you all, but with hundreds of members, it is taking a while so if you have not had a call yet don’t worry we will call you in the next few days. I have a long list and am about 75% of the way through. As you can imagine I am drinking a lot, squash and coffee (NOT gin and tonic, unfortunately), and sucking many sweets to keep my voice going.

I have had the privilege of speaking with some really lovely people this week. I have been hearing about the different things you have been doing to keep busy, lots of gardening, watching TV and exercising at home. I have been very impressed by those of you who are exercising. I have turned into a couch, or rather dining room chair potato as I have been on my laptop and phone this week. I will exercise next week – I will!

I have also been hearing about the challenges you are facing. A shortage of toilet rolls has been a common challenge. I am sorry I do not have any thoughts but remember several supermarkets have special shopping slots just for older and vulnerable people: M&S is between 8.30 am and 9.30 am on weekdays Sainsbury’s from between 8 am and 9 am on Monday, Wednesday and Friday Tesco (not Express) are opening from 9 am to 10 am Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

I know one or two of you have struggled to go out for food and supplies and I am very proud that our team have been able to support you.

Well done team – you are stars.

Theresa”