On top of hosting remote learning for her class, form tutor Miss Whiting has been working extra hard during the lockdown by volunteering to manage a befriending service for people with disabilities and those with long-term health conditions, including mental health. She has joined the independent charity Buckinghamshire Disability Service (BuDS).
BuDS 'BuDDies' are volunteers who will regularly call anyone who is lonely or in need of support for a friendly chat. If a person needs practical help too, the BuDDy will link them up with someone who can help.
"Talking to someone neutral and helpful can be so important when you are lonely or worried, and the BuDDy team want to do their bit to help Bucks through this coronavirus crisis," Miss Whiting explained. In light of the lockdown, Miss Whiting has set up an online database for clients and volunteers, enabling them to record communication and ensure each client receives the care they need. She has set up 4 pairs of befrienders and clients so far, with one client of her own with whom she has regular communication. On top of it all, she has developed a training programme which she now delivers herself over video call to new volunteers. The charity is always welcoming new volunteers, and for more information you can visit their website here.