Banbury's Sunshine Centre steps up for families during coronavirus pandemic

The doors may be locked, but a reduced staff team are operating a telephone service to the most vulnerable in the community, offering a friendly voice and letting parents know The Sunshine Centre is still available for them.

At a time when mental health has been recognised as being integral to the wellbeing of a family, that person on the other end of the phone can be the buttress a parent needs to prevent crumbling.

Jill Edge, manager of The Sunshine Centre said the following about the new strategy adopted by the charity: “Not being able to have face to face contact with families has been an unprecedented challenge. Our service relies heavily on face to face contact with families, bringing people together to avoid isolation and supporting them through difficult times.

"The underpinning ethos of The Sunshine Centre is to provide a cornerstone for young families in the community during difficult times. Families are now in need, more than ever."

The Sunshine Centre is also providing food boxes to people within the community.

Jill Edge added: "Our links with other organisations have enabled us to provide food boxes to families who are struggling.

"One mother commented, she was still able to go shopping, but, being a single parent with small children dictates that the children have to go too. The reaction of other shoppers towards her has not been kind and she felt 'judged' for having the children with her.

"For this mother a food parcel is a lifeline. She is not alone. Many single parents are now detached from their social support networks at a time when they are most needed. These families have few options.

"The food boxes and flowers are being picked up by families in a safe manner."

For families in isolation a delivery service by local councillors is being used.

She added: "We have also recognised the need for families to entertain their children. Activity packs for young children not able to attend childcare are being compiled and distributed by staff. These packs will provide activities and ideas for the family, encouraging positive family time.

"We have local heroes to applaud, who have helped with our efforts. Local councillor Barry Richards has distributed food to families, currently battling at home with the virus. As the lockdown deepens we have had offers of help from more of our dedicated local councillors who are just waiting on the end of the phone for a plea of help."

Food boxes were donated and Costa in Castle Quay made a kind donation of food after closing their doors last week. Marks & Spencer in Banbury have supported The Sunshine Centre for many years now, and have increased what they offer.

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