Loneliness moves through all our lives in little bubbles and snatched pockets if we are the lucky ones. Others live their lives in solitude, some not communicating with anyone else for days and even weeks. The cause of this can be anything from the death of a loved one or the loss of their peers to addiction or mental health issues. Haileybury as a community seen as privileged, does not avoid this life trait and the Haileybury Society knows from its engagement with our members that some OHs may be in need of pastoral care.
In November 2024 the Society partnered with the charity Coffee and Coping (charity no 1211144) whose Chairman is OH Edmund Aitken-Ballard (Th 87), son of former chaplain Richard Ballard. Edmund (who himself is a recovering addict) is a qualified recovery & Mental Health Advocate and has level 2 Mental Health First Aid and level 2 Counselling skills. A further course was done in Understanding Child Psychology level 2 and he has completed level 3 Counselling skills.
We provide a framework to take care of the needs of members should they find themself in a situation they feel unable to deal with. Actual help provided by listening and seeing the root of problems as well as having partnerships all over the country to signpost to solutions if necessary or conversations if not. In the last three months Edmund has been able to signpost to various other charities and local groups including a referral taken up by NHS Therapy Direct, AA and Citizens Advice Bureau and he has secured funding for white goods and delivery of a home hospital bed. All Edmund’s work with Society Members is undertaken in the strictest confidence.
Anything from help with house items that cannot be afforded to addiction, depression, anxiety and more. Should you need us we are here for you.
A LIFETIME OF SUPPORT FOR EVERY HAILEYBURIAN
Email Edmund – OH@coffeeandcoping.org
WhatsApp Edmund – 07990 730 188 (our dedicated phone line for those in need of more serious help)
Monthly group TEAMS meeting – for OHs to reconnect as well as share their issues or just combat Loneliness. Please email Edmund to check the available Saturday 3pm dates OH@coffeeandcoping.org
Weekly Telephone Helpline – Available every Saturday afternoon Noon – 3pm for you to speak with Edmund in complete confidence: 07990 730 188
