CONCERNS about social isolation and loneliness prompted the creation of St Paul’s Community Care in the parish of Mt Lawley recently.
Parishioners John and Kristyn Ryan, plus Gerry and Bernadette Taylor were concerned about the plight of some elderly people as well as identifying a growing number of households where separation, imprisonment, death and other stress have caused family breakdown. “Loneliness can become a mental health problem when it is in your life for a long time as it can escalate into anxiety, depression, self harm, substance abuse and suicide,” Mr Ryan said.
With the support of parish priest Fr Tim Deeter and pastoral worker Sr Regina Naisbitt, concern has blossomed into firm commitment with 22 parishioners volunteering for service.
