Church Times Appeal

Friday 23 October 2020

The Mothers’ Union in the diocese of Llandaff has launched a digital-inclusion campaign to tackle renewed isolation among older people. The charity is to loan for a period of two months smart tablets with internet access to people who are isolated — firstly as a trial among its own members with the intention of rolling out to communities. Volunteers will teach the recipients basic digital skills virtually so that they can keep in contact with loved ones and attend online church services.
The President of MU Llandaff, Sue Rivers, said: “Our aim is to ensure no one is left behind. Despite our best efforts, some individuals are still isolated and long to see familiar faces — perhaps friends or relatives living away. Many churches are putting their services online either via YouTube or livestreamed on Facebook and without a digital device, these cannot be accessed.”
The ecumenical group Christians on Ageing has also been considering how churches can maintain contact with older people. In its booklet Reflections During a Pandemic, published on Thursday, different authors explore key social issues raised during the pandemic, including isolation, and how churches can help.