[Doug]

I do take note of your point and I’m sure that most people will reflect on the subject the same way but in reality it as nothing to do with Christmas, it more about the winter period where not only the older members of the community but also the weak, infirm or disabled of any age group who might not go unseen, unheard and unnoticed in the warmer, lighter months of the year, but are severely at an heightened risk when the darker, colder and depressive nights of winter fall on us. Has the year turns after the New Year and the months get progressively colder the death rates go up. Unnecessary deaths or injuries do rise during the festivities because the rest of us take our eye off the ball, but it doesn’t have to happen.

A simple “Hello” how are you is enough in most case’s has you’ve established that all important contact. Just a small note to the well intentioned who might want to do as much as possible to help,

Don’t go calling too early in the morning or late in the evening or at night. Use the day light hours wisely, people will see you better and appreciate your efforts more. “Get them out of a warm bed on your way to work at 7.30 am won’t endear you to them.”

Don’t make promises you can’t or won’t keep.

Don’t go round in groups, it can be threatening.

Don’t pester; establish regular contact and the look out for obvious signs that something might be a miss.

Don’t create dependency, it will undermine they and yourself.

Do help clear paths of ice or snow.

Do help keep paths open and clear of waist or general rubbish.

Do give honest advice and directions; never assume responsibility for the individual’s financial affairs, point them toward their GPs surgery or the local council advice centre or social work department. There are people qualified to deal with such matters.

Do offer to collect shopping if you’re going shopping yourself.

Always use your common sense and communicate with other around the neighbourhood. Don’t assume someone else is doing something, if they are share the responsibility and never allow yourself to be left alone with young children, take a partner with you.