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. We are conscious that some OHs may be in need of pastoral care.
The Society will be partnering with the CEO of Coffee and Coping (charity no 1211144) OH Edmund Aitken-Ballard (Th 87) and son of former chaplain Richard Ballard. We will 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.
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.
There will be regular zoom meetings for OHs to reconnect as well as share their issues or just combat Loneliness. There will also be a dedicated phone line for those not on the internet or in need of more serious help.
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.
Weekly Telephone Helpline – Available every Saturday afternoon for you to speak with Edmund in complete confidence: 07990 730 188, 12 to 3pm.
Monthly Zoom – Please email Edmund direct at OH@coffeeandcoping.org for more details.
