Kirsten Oswald MP has joined 50 MPs in signing a cross-party letter calling for a ‘Happy Hour’ of free phone calls for over 75s, recognising the particular challenges this group face as the Covoravirus lockdown continues.
The initiative aims to stop the most vulnerable people from also being the most isolated group. With elderly people already at such a risk of loneliness, they shouldn’t be forced to choose between staying in contact with their loved ones and paying their bills. It is therefore being suggested that all telephone networks provide free calls for at least one hour a day for their customers aged over 75.
Kirsten Oswald MP said:
“We already know the difficulties which isolation and loneliness can cause. The current measures are very important in protecting us all, and we must adhere to them, but we know that these vulnerable pensioners are more at risk due to this crisis, so it is our responsibility to do what we can to make sure we’re taking steps to prevent isolating this vulnerable population even further.”
“Happy Hour calls will help older people to stay in touch with their loved ones and avoid loneliness during this global crisis. Alleviating just this little bit of financial pressure could make all the difference to someone struggling with loneliness right now. I do hope that phone companies will support this campaign”
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