30 June 2020
Older Islanders who have been isolating during the COVID-19 outbreak have been invited to attend one of two socially-distanced coffee afternoons at Les Ormes yesterday (Monday 29 June) and today between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. The events have been organised for invited Islanders only, with strict public health guidance in place.
The Government of Jersey has partnered with Age Concern, Call and Check, Meals on Wheels and Les Ormes to organise the events, which aim to help combat the loneliness felt by those who have been isolating to protect themselves from the risk of COVID-19.
Strict public health guidance is in place to reduce the risks to attendees. Anyone attending will be asked to remain 1 metre apart from others, maintain good hand and respiratory hygiene, and remain in small groups. People showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be able to attend.
Paul McGinnety, Director of Local Services, said: “We know that many older Islanders look forward to coffee mornings and other social gatherings. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has meant an end to these activities for the last few months, and that has had a severe impact on their overall quality of life.
“I’m grateful to all of our partners, especially the Bosdet Foundation and Les Ormes for supporting this initiative, which will help older Islanders to begin to enjoy a return to socialising, while still remaining safe.”
Alan Le Pavoux, Charity Manager of the Bosdet Foundation, said: “The Bosdet Foundation are delighted to be able to use the first-rate brasserie at Les Ormes to support this event. We understand the impact that Isolation has had on many Islanders but in many cases, this has been harder for elderly Islanders.
“As we move into the ‘new normal,’ The Bosdet Foundation wants to help elderly people to socialise in a safe and meaningful way, because we understand that it’s vital to their wellbeing. As a Foundation, we believe that working collaboratively with charities and government can produce fantastic results.”
gov.je