15/12/2004 - Social Services 'out of hours' team makes sure nobody's left 'out in the cold'

While many of us are enjoying the Christmas season, Cumbria County Council’s Social Services `Out of Hours Team’ are supporting those in need at times of crisis, ensuring that vulnerable people aren’t left `out in the cold’ over the holiday period. 

County Councillor John Mallinson, Cabinet spokesman for care and social services explains,

"Members of the `Out of Hours’ team cover the whole of the county, dealing with emergency situations and helping the most vulnerable in society during the night, weekends and bank holidays. The county council's social services department is committed to supporting vulnerable adults and children, particularly in times of crisis. The team provide an invaluable service. It must be remembered though that the service is an emergency one and like any other emergency service should not be contacted for routine enquiries or any situation that can wait for the normal social care services to resume." 

The `Out of Hours’ team consists of six social workers and a team manager. Each member of the team has to have a very broad knowledge of social care issues to deal with the numerous types of incidents they might need to handle. This relatively small but crucial team handle some of the most challenging cases during the time when most offices, day centres and other support services are closed. Kevin Hoban, `Out of Hours’ team manager says:

"Christmas and the New Year can be particularly hard on lonely or homeless people and those with mental health problems. There is a distinct rise in the number of calls relating to mental health issues, child protection and the protection of vulnerable adults during this time. Problems of homelessness increase and in a county the size of Cumbria, it can be difficult to find suitable accommodation for those in need. We deal with a huge range of social care issues all year round but Christmas brings an increase in personal crises, often due to loneliness and isolation and alcohol related incidents. Family tensions can rise leading to child protection concerns and older adults living alone often need additional support. The size and nature of the county can often cause it’s own problems for the team, especially when trying to get to clients in atrocious weather or isolated locations. 

At this time of year there is a need for everyone to be aware of needs of others and be a good neighbour. The `Out of Hours’ team work together with a number of other agencies to ensure that we provide support and protection to vulnerable people in the community."

Cumbria County Council’s Social Services offices are open normal office hours throughout the holiday period. Because Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day fall on a weekend, the offices will be closed on Monday 27, Tuesday 28 December and Monday 3 January. Anyone who needs the `Out of Hours’ team’s specialist help at any time outside office opening hours can call (01228) 526690.