DIAL-OP – Keeping the people of Dundee informed and helping them to feel connected, safer and valued.
Social isolation is a major contributor to both physical and mental health issues in adults. DIAL-OP with the help of our fantastic volunteers is working to cut down on the isolation and loneliness in Dundee, helping to combat the impact this has on the health of our city, while offering opportunities for individuals to grow their own skills and confidence through volunteering.
DIAL-OP started out 5 years ago as an information helpline for older people in Dundee and has recently hit 1000 enquiries, with enquiries ranging from knitting patterns to accessing much needed support at home and in the community.
The last year has brought exciting changes to DIAL-OP. The project expanded its reach to include all adults in the city, and its service to include telephone befriending and morning calls. These services are a result of the feedback received from our service users and consultations.
With all these changes happening DIAL-OP decided to shake up their branding and re-name the telephone befriending service to reflect the new identity of the project. The telephone befriending service is now known as Blether Buddies, a friendlier and more approachable name for the service and the bright green colouring of the Logo ties us in well with Volunteer Dundee branding while projecting the open and welcoming nature of the project.
- DIAL-OP information helpline, the one stop shop for all your information needs in Dundee.
- DIAL-OP Morning Call offers a short daily telephone call on week days to offer reassurance, connectivity and if required reminders for appointments or events.
- DIAL-OP Blether Buddies provides a weekly catch up and chat with one of our trained volunteers.
Referrals are welcome for both Blether Buddies and Morning Call. Details can be found on the DIAL-OP page HERE , by email: dialop@volunteerdundee.org.uk or by calling the team on 01382 305757.
Article written by Gill Faichney, Project Support Worker, DIAL-OP