Natter can negate isolation
HELPING isolated, elderly Warwick folk - some with few or no family members - become better integrated into the community could be as easy as a 20-minute phone call.
Yesterday, Red Cross volunteers worked to do just that, when the charity's inaugural tele-chat was launched in the Rose City.
Client co-ordinator Megan Shirley said TeleChat was an important initiative.
"It's aim is to reduce social isolation for people on their own," she said.
"Having a weekly phone call helps them develop some informal contact and it's a free service."
Ms Shirley likened the conversation to "how you would start talking with someone at the bus stop".
Warwick branch president Neil Meiklejohn said it was hoped down the track that the weekly calls would turn into a daily one.
"It could be an alternative to the emergency buttons elderly people have," he said.
"In a community like Warwick, families are more widespread and programs like TeleChat provide social contact."
People can register for the free TeleChat service through Red Cross on 1300 885 698.
