Balerno resident Ishbel Smith started the Balerno Cares network, which currently boasts 1,356 members. Ishbel worked as a lawyer for 20 years before going back to university to do theology. An elder at Balerno Parish Church, she is also chair of the Mill Café. She and her husband, Iain, have three teenage children.
“The central message of Balerno Cares is ‘be kind’, and anyone can join. You don’t have to be a resident. This helps those who live in other areas to ensure their loved ones are looked after. For example, an adult child living in Glasgow can let us know about the needs of their elderly parents living in Balerno, as well as encouraging “ People have put to make use of the teddy bears in their them help that’s on offer.”
Having lived in Balerno for 13 years, Ishbel Smith knew it was an amazing community. And, as concerns about the coronavirus grew, she knew the residents would want to help one another. In the week leading up to the lockdown Ishbel pondered: People will want a focus. How can Balerno help itself? “I’m a firm believer in community,” she says. “And one evening in mid March I just decided to start a Facebook page, where locals could share resources and ideas and ask questions. Within 24 hours ‘Balerno Cares’ had 400 members!”
windows, so that children on a walk with their family can go on a bear hunt. It’s really heart-warming ”
During the following week a number of WhatsApp street groups were set up. “There are about 38 such groups,” says Ishbel, “which makes looking out for one another easier. The WhatsApp groups enable people to collect groceries or prescriptions for neighbours, share news and helpful information, and provide encouragement. 24 | www.konect.scot
If you scroll the Balerno Cares Facebook page you will find practical information about such things as: where you will find a post office that’s open; how to deal with garden waste or recycling that’s not being collected; craft ideas for keeping little ones busy; and local online church services. It also provides support for local businesses. The Tune of the Day feature seems to be a hit — every day you can listen to the latest winner, a song that was nominated due to its power to cheer up! @KonectMagazines
