Research finds almost half of Londoners now find it easier to ask for help
New research suggests that the coronavirus pandemic has changed our attitude towards asking for help, as almost half (48%) of Londoners now say they find it easier to reach out when they are struggling.
The research from the British Red Cross also revealed that the pandemic has made us more compassionate, with people more concerned about those in need and many saying they will be kinder to others long into the future.
In London, almost two thirds (62%) of those polled said they will be more considerate of lonely people and those in need this festive period and over half (57%) said that living through the pandemic will make them kinder for years to come.
However, over a third (36%) of Londoners who anticipate needing support said they wouldn’t know where to turn with nearly a quarter (24%) feeling ‘powerless’ in the face of ongoing pandemic Tier restrictions.
Zoë Abrams, Executive Director at the British Red Cross, said: “Throughout the pandemic, the British Red Cross has been there for people in their most difficult moments.
“No one could have anticipated Covid-19, or the disruption to our lives that has come with it.
“If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that sometimes, asking for help is the bravest thing you can do.
“As we navigate the challenges ahead, it’s comforting to know that you don’t always have to be there yourself to make a difference.”
The British Red Cross work with over 100 hospitals across the UK and have appealed to the public to donate to help with their work over the course of the pandemic.
Since the start of the pandemic, Red Cross volunteers have helped more than 21,000 people home from hospital, made over 85,000 food deliveries, 13,000 medicine deliveries and loaned wheelchairs and mobility aids to 57,000 people.
Abrams said: “Through the British Red Cross, you can get food and medicine to someone who is isolating.
“You can give relief to someone who is lonely. You can get someone home from hospital in time for Christmas.
“By donating to the British Red Cross, you can put the power of kindness into action and make sure we’re there to support the most vulnerable people this winter.”
For more information or to make a donation to the British Red Cross visit – redcross.org.uk/get-involved/donate
Everyone at the South London Press thanks you for your continued support.
Former Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has encouraged everyone in the country who can afford to do so to buy a newspaper, and told the Downing Street press briefing:
“A FREE COUNTRY NEEDS A FREE PRESS, AND THE NEWSPAPERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE UNDER SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL PRESSURE”
If you can afford to do so, we would be so grateful if you can make a donation which will allow us to continue to bring stories to you, both in print and online. Or please make cheques payable to “MSI Media Limited” and send by post to South London Press, Unit 112, 160 Bromley Road, Catford, London SE6 2NZ
