Tackling loneliness

THE mayor of Almeria, María del Mar Vázquez, signed an agreement on Monday, April 17 with the Teléfono de la Esperanza (Telephone of Hope) organisation with the aim of improving the quality of life of the elderly.

This is an initiative that offers tools to combat situations of isolation and loneliness through telephone guidance, professional advice, support groups for personal development, workshops and talks.

Vázquez pointed out that the Telephone of Hope “is essential because it does commendable work and has managed to ensure that these workshops and initiatives are enjoyed by more than 600 people.”

The president of Teléfono de la Esperanza, Isabel Orland, thanked the city council for its support “to reach so many corners of Almeria and see the tenderness that older people arouse.”

Founded 22 years ago, the organisation is blessed with 40 volunteers who help the emotional health of some of the city’s most vulnerable people.