At this time of great concern for us all, at Sense Scotland we sincerely hope that you and your loved ones are in good health and stay that way.
Ensuring the people we support, some of the most vulnerable and disabled in our communities, also continue in good health remains our key priority. But the circumstances in which we deliver individual care have changed dramatically. Like you, the people we support are confined to their homes. Like you, they are scared and uncertain. But unlike you, they may not understand what is going on. They may not be able to communicate their fear and anxieties.
They may not understand why they can’t go out. They may not understand why they can’t be physically close to the people they love and care for, or who care for them. Their normal, safe, comforting routine has changed overnight. They may not understand that there is no end in sight, no day on which they might take part in fun group activities, to sing and dance and laugh with their friends.
Our teams are in regular contact with families and, during a recent phone conversation, one young man we support asked if we can email Boris Johnson to ask when this will all be over so he can get out with his staff for a cup of coffee! Understanding the impact of what we are all living through is incomprehensible for him and for so many of the individuals we support.
At Sense Scotland we are putting our arms around our family – the people we support, their families, carers, support staff and management – to keep them all safe. We are making difficult decisions every day, to ensure all our staffing, energy, resources and effort are focused on providing the essential daily home support and 24 hour care to protect those most vulnerable.
We need your support now more than ever. Our fundraising events are on hold, our collection cans stand in deserted premises, our charity shops have closed. We stand to lose almost £1 million of income which will seriously affect our future.
We also understand that circumstances are challenging for you too. We can’t thank you enough for all your support to date, but understand if you need to pause your regular donation. If you donate via your bank, you can contact them directly to discuss postponing your monthly donation.
Without us, without you, we can’t imagine what the future holds for our beneficiaries.
Please, if you can, give what you can.
With warmest wishes,
Angela Bonomy, Executive Director, Sense Scotland