An Edinburgh-based campaign which aims to help vulnerable people cope with different aspects of lockdown has been launched.
LinkLiving are having to find new ways to help the 1500 people they normally support as we approach a fourth week of life behind closed doors.
A new campaign 'A Ray of Sunshine' has been launched and this will help with advice on how to maintain positive health and wellbeing, with top tips on keeping a routine, sleeping well, eating properly and finding activities to do to keep busy.
Rather than LinkLiving staff helping people face-to-face, they are now providing online support and making phonecalls as much as possible. They also run 24/7 accommodation for young people who have been in care, have been homeless and who have severe mental health challenges.
LinkLiving Chief Executive, Sarah Smith, said: "We are all anxious and scared right now, but for the people that we support who have experienced past traumas, and who are already isolated and lonely, the pandemic is magnifying their existing difficulties.
“We support around 1,500 of the most isolated, lonely and often traumatised people. Many of whom have absolutely no one to turn to at this time.
“They may be young people who have come from care, people who have been homeless, adults who have experienced childhood trauma, or who have severe and enduring mental health problems.
“These people have already been through so much.
“Many have traumas and disadvantages, such as being emotionally, physically or sexually abused. This can lead to anxiety, poor mental health, difficulties with relationships, with managing day to day life or holding down a job.
“Some of the people we support have the coronavirus and many, particularly the older people, are having to self-isolate.
“Like everyone we are having to adapt at the moment and this is putting considerable strain on our resources, but I couldn’t be prouder of the LinkLiving teams as they work so hard and selflessly to ensure that nobody is alone.”
Anyone who can help support this campaign is encouraged to do so by visiting the LinkLiving website.
