HELPING OTHERS – tips

Look after yourself - before

It can be upsetting to see someone you know and care about in distress. Before you Check-in & Reach-out be realistic about what you are able to offer, little acts of kindness, like sending someone a message or calling them, and offering help if needed can mean a lot and will not impact on you too much.
Remember, it is important to do this in line with official coronavirus social distancing guidance to keep everyone safe.

1. Let them know you can help

Messaging or calling someone lets them know you're thinking of them and is a good way to open up a conversation– it shows you care and have time to talk with them and you can let them know you are there to help if they need it.

2. Listen and reassure them

If they tell you they are worried or feeling isolated - recognise this and try to reassure them and let them know you are there – listen to them to find out how they are and what they need, it may be they just need to talk.

3. Be calm and offer support

In a calm way offer and encourage them to get help with what they need. This could be exchanging phone numbers and arranging to keep in touch or checking if they need help with practical thing like shopping or getting prescriptions. You could give them the contact numbers for Local Covid-19 Volunteer Groups and/or Killaloe/Ballina Family Resource Centre on 061-374741 or offer to make a call on their behalf.

4. If they do not want support

If they don’t want support that is ok, don’t force it. Just letting them know you are there means they might ask for help in the future.

Look after yourself - after

After Checking-in & Reaching-out to someone be kind to yourself and take some time to relax or do something you enjoy.