Waging a war on loneliness and keeping people connected

Over the last month our sales team have been waging a war on loneliness, telephoning, video calling, emailing and writing to hundreds of older people living in our new developments and the surrounding areas.

Lockdown may have restricted movement and imposed social distancing, but across our new developments the sales consultants and advisors are ensuring their customers and contacts don’t feel isolated.

“We want to make sure people know they are not alone and there are others out there thinking about them. This is a difficult time for everyone and by keeping in touch with existing customers, whether that be people we have already helped settle in to their new home, those still waiting to move in, or contacts who have simply registered an interest in one of our estates, we are hoping to keep loneliness at bay and help people feel connected to their community” said Sales Consultant Jade Cree.

The calls, emails and post have all been met with an extremely positive response, and many of the team now have regular weekly calls set up.

Ryan Jeal, Sales Advisor, said: “The feedback we have had has been great. People have told us they really appreciate the support we are trying to offer them. We are checking in to see how people are getting on and no two calls or email exchanges are the same. Some people are grateful for our help with practical things like finding information, while others are pleased for the opportunity to have a chit chat about the day to day things in life with someone different.

“We have helped check supermarket opening times and find priority slots, signposted people to an array of support networks and shared tips on staying active and well during lockdown.”

“Some of the people we speak to live alone and tell us they are very much missing friends, family and the causal encounters daily life usually brings. This really resonates with each of us” said Sales Advisor Tracey Brown.

“We all miss interacting with people too and have built up relationships with the residents already living here. It is really nice to be able to stay in touch with them and know how they are getting on.”

“It’s a great feeling to know I have made a positive difference to someone’s day. I really enjoy hearing about how people have been keeping busy, finding out about their pets and the delicious recipes they have been cooking. I’ve learnt of a number of good walks in the area and local beauty spots I must visit, and I’m getting some great a TV programme recommendations!” added Jade.