The Minister of Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, wants to remind the public of helping services that are available to assist Bermuda as we come together to persevere through these challenging times.
Minister Furbert said, "Bermuda, we are going through this as a community; no one is alone. There are resources available to help you if you need them. There have also been considerations made to ensure that during this Stay-at-Home Order essential resources remain accessible.”
Please find a listing of some available resources below:
Third-Sector Revised Feeding Schedule: https://iacbermuda.org/april-essential-service-listing-stay-at-home-order/
Support Services Directory for Families, Children, Seniors, and Persons with Disabilities: https://helpingservices.bm/directory/
Department of Child and Family Services for assessing and investigating a child or children’s immediate safety and risk of future harm: Telephone Number (441) 278-1111
Minister Furbert expressed, “The safety and protection of our children and families is crucial. If you are aware of any children who may be subject to abuse or neglect, please help to protect them by contacting the Department of Child and Family Services.”
“Understandably, Bermuda is a small place, and we know that there may be hesitation when considering reporting. However, forthright reporting will always be the choice that is in the best interest of our children.”
“While we navigate this Stay-at-Home period, if there are children and/or families who require assistance or may not be safe, I urge the community to reach out to us and assist where you can.”
Ageing and Disability Services for Vulnerable Seniors and Persons with Disabilities: https://helpingservices.bm/listing/ageing-and-disabilities-services/
Minister Furbert added, “Ageing and Disability Services (ADS) is a resource to assist in supporting and protecting our seniors and persons with disabilities who are at risk of abuse or self-neglect.”
Ageing and Disability Services (ADS):
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Receive and investigate reports of senior abuse and maintain the Senior Abuse Register.
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Case Management where they offer assistance with Care Needs Assessment, coordinating care, and identifying access to services.
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Provide information and education on community and government Long Term Care Resources.
The Department of Ageing and Disability Services are accepting telephone calls Monday - Friday, from 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on (441) 292-7802, or you can email ads@gov.bm
Action on Alzheimer's and Dementia (AAD) supports people living with dementia, along with their families and caregivers.
During the Stay-at-Home Order, AAD will continue to host their April programs via Zoom:
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Music for Memories at 11 am on Mondays and Thursdays. Zoom Meeting ID: 893-3612-9994 Password: AAD2021
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Seated Chair Exercises at 12:30 pm on Tuesdays. Zoom Meeting ID: 898-2384-8067 Password: AAD2021
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AAD Support Group Meeting on Sunday, April 18th at 5:30 pm. Zoom Meeting ID: 717-1668-0621 Password: AAD2021
For more information and to stay informed, please visit www.alzbermuda.com or email alzbermuda@yahoo.com
In conclusion, Minister Furbert shared, "Bermuda, we encourage you to share helping resources with those who need them most. As we continue to come together to care for one another, we will see how strong we really are."
"To the Third Sector, on behalf of the Government, thank you for your unwavering dedication to supporting our country, especially when needed most."
"Also, I would like to remind you that each of us has a role to play in stopping the spread of the coronavirus. Follow the Public Health guidelines, wear a mask, practice good hand hygiene, maintain physical distance, download the WeHealth Bermuda app, and if you have not already, consider registering to get vaccinated."