Fakenham Parish Church: Community Blog

Recently someone who we know very well was discharged from hospital. It is an incredibly vulnerable time for both them and their relatives. It seems that despite the best intentions in the world, lines of communication about where to obtain  the medical supplies required  are somewhat fuzzy.

Having made enquiries at all the local chemists ( on behalf of our neighbours) we were unable to obtain one medical supply item needed. That is, we could have ordered it at one chemist but at an exorbitant price. Having made a search on the internet we have been able to source both this, and another item,( totally unavailable from local chemists) at a very reasonable price through a website which we had used when my own husband was discharged from hospital ..

I’m not quite sure how this problem  could be addressed. I just feel that there are people in need of help/advice at a time when they are extremely vulnerable and somehow or other they are  ’slipping through the net’ in terms of practical information. It would be helpful if there were some information about where to obtain things at the most affordable price in this time of escalating costs.

Any suggestions anyone? 

 It could be that Age Concern already address this problem but if they do, it is not widely known about.

Could it be possible to have a day a week when someone with a computer was available to make searches for people and try to source their requirements  or would that be ‘treading on the toes ‘of retailers?

Ann Robertson

Recently in the ‘Times’ newspaper there was an article on men’s health stating that in comparison to women, men in this country have poor health. What worried me was the high risk of suicide in men compared to women.

Having been involved in the care of the mentally ill as a chaplain in former days and also created a drop in centre for psychiatric patients when I was Vicar of Herne Bay in Kent I realise that there is a major problem.

Recently wife telephoned a local Vicar to ask about an event we wanted to attend. He was gruff, unhelpful and bordering on being rude. My wife is very easy to get on with but was taken aback by the his attitude.

My experience has been that the Church is often lacking when you are in need and have sympathy for people with certain illnesses but lacks understanding about mental illness. My door is always open to help and if you do need any support or prayer please let me know.

I have had depression myself, so I know what I am talking about. When everything around you looks black you are in a state of depression and you need help.

So please don’t try and sort out all your problems on your own. There is help out there.

The help may not be where you expect it but it is still there.