SUPPORT FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE
Boots Pharmacy Consultation Rooms, across the country, including the Stornoway branch, now offer safe spaces for victims of Domestic Abuse. The safe spaces offer contact for specialist domestic abuse services, for support and advice.
The scheme, launched by Hestia, is a response to the desperate situation, facing many victims, who are isolating with perpetrators, during lockdown.
Chief Inspector Ian Graham, Western Isles Area Commander “We are aware that there is an increased risk of domestic abuse, as people observe isolation and social distancing guidance. We welcome this additional support for those affected.
Anyone at risk of abuse, can contact Police Scotland on 101, or 999 in an emergency. Or Scotland's Domestic Abuse helpline on 0800 027 1234. Or online at Safer.scot
Read more: Isles FM News in association with Hebrides News: Monday 18th May 2020
SPEED UP BUSINESS SUPPORT
Many businesses across the Highlands and Islands, are still waiting to access the Government’s business support. The latest figures for the Western Isles, are one of the worst in Scotland, with 31.1% businesses waiting for support.
Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron commented
“Businesses are now months into this crisis and far too many of them, in this region, are still waiting for the support they need to survive. Small and medium-sized enterprises will be vital to our recovery, from any economic downturn. But if a significant portion across the Highlands and Islands, don’t get funding on time, it will be difficult for them to survive and save jobs.
Read more: Isles FM News in association with Hebrides News: Friday 15th May 2020
TECHNOLOGY FOR THOSE IN NEED IN LOCKDOWN
The EU-funded mPower team, at NHS Western Isles, has adapted its working practices, to continue helping the housebound during the coronavirus outbreak.
mPower uses digital support to enable elderly people, in remote areas to live safely and independently in their own homes, by introducing them to various health and wellbeing assistance.
Sue Long, mPower, leads the four-person team covering the whole of the Western Isles, helping the elderly and those who have long-term health conditions and chronic illnesses, to create wellbeing plans, in a bid to improve their day to day lives.
Sue Long commented:
“One of the main things we've been focusing on over the past couple of months is keeping people connected. All care homes across the Western Isles have been supplied with iPads by the NHS, so we've been helping residents use this technology to keep in touch with their families
“We have trained the Care Home Managers how to allow the family meetings to happen. The ‘daily ceilidh’ for residents in Bernera and Uig, is another great example It’s an online coffee morning that takes place every day, where people can come together and chat to others.
“Videoconferencing technology is also being used to remotely connect people with health professionals, so they don’t have to be seen by a doctor in person. This is hugely helpful for people who live in remote communities across the Western Isles.”
Read more: Isles FM News in association with Hebrides News: Thursday 14th May 2020
