Leighton Listeners provide a friendly voice during pandemic

Founders Colin Johnson and Rachel Honeyford have been mightily impressed by the dedication and commitment of their team, who make phone calls to people who are feeling lonely and need someone to talk to.

The volunteers are members of the Leighton Linslade Helpers and Rotary Club of Leighton-Linslade - as well as other residents who have put themselves forward - and Colin and Rachel feel that they have made a huge difference in the town.

Colin, a community chaplain at Hockliffe Street Baptist Church, said: “A lot of people have been feeling isolated and cut off with the lockdown, so we thought maybe if someone could call them on a regular basis it would make them feel less lonely.

“We are trying to support people at this time and there’s a real power in listening - it’s someone showing that you care, and doing something for free.

“I think we have helped about 70 people and are calling about 50 at the moment.”

Colin and Rachel, who are both trained counsellors, would also like to say a big thank you to team member Dawn Ayling, who has dealt with the administration side and been a great support.

The Leighton Listeners currently has 19 active callers and 23 callers in total, with the remaining four resting until they are called up for service.

Colin said: “People are saying it’s been really helpful.

“[If you would like to get in touch] don’t feel that it’s a weakness or any reason to feel negative about yourself.

“Sometimes it can really help to talk to someone about how you feel and just take your mind off your worries.”

The Leighton Listeners has been operating since early April in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and residents can get in touch by calling 07517851395.

If a person is struggling with their mental health, the team can refer them to a group of qualified counsellors.

You can also get in touch via: https://www.leightonlinsladehelpers.org.uk/page-content/Leighton-Listeners