Confinement reinforces the loneliness experienced by many elderly people. It was to help them that the British public service broadcasting company decided to offer radio sets to people over 70 years of age. Since Monday, an online form allows you to make a request for yourself, a loved one or a neighbor.
Read also: Loneliness and worry, the double suffering of the elderly facing the coronavirus
In total, several thousand devices will be distributed by the Wavelength charity, which equips isolated people with televisions, radios or tablets. The stations are supplied by the Argos, Currys PC World, John Lewis & Partners, Pure and Roberts Radio brands, while Duracell will donate batteries to supply them.
This campaign is relayed by the 39 local radio stations belonging to the BBC in England. “Local radio stations are currently providing a vital link. More than ever, they allow access to safe and verified information, but they are also a daily companion for isolated people , " said BBC director Tony Hall.
Read also: The BBC tests a filter to remove bad news
Local BBC stations also launched the Make a Difference operation last week. It aims to connect people in difficulty with those ready to help them. In five days, more than 28,000 listeners came forward. Some stations have seen their number of calls received jump 300% from normal. There is also the point of donating radio sets: inviting isolated seniors to make these calls to seek help from their neighbors.