The UK Institute of Quarrying Benevolent Fund (IQBF) has launched a series of virtual coffee morning events designed to help IQ members, former members and their families who may be experiencing loneliness due to the lockdown.
The Mental Health Foundation reported in one of its latest surveys that one in four adults (24%) in the UK is experiencing loneliness. The virtual coffee morning initiative from IQBF is part of its ongoing programme of support available to members and their families.
IQBF welfare officer Wanda Zablocki commented: “As part of our drive to reach out to members, former members, retired members and their families who may be in need of support in times of difficulty, we sent out a personalised letter to remind people of the support available through the IQ Benevolent Fund.
“It transpired that there was a small group of ladies whose husbands had passed away and who really appreciated a regular phone call. In an effort to provide them with a support group, we organised a virtual coffee morning over Zoom and sent a hamper, complete with tea, coffee and sweet treats, in the post.
“It was so lovely listening to their stories from past IQ dinner dances, discussions about their husbands and the industry, as well as general chat about how they are coping in lockdown.”
The IQBF says that, as a result of the success from the first virtual coffee morning, it has also arranged virtual coffee mornings for a group of former presidents and retired members. It adds that the feedback received from attendees of these events, as well as those who received the letter, has been overwhelmingly positive.
One respondent said: “Thank you so much for contacting me – you may not realise how comforting it is to receive your emails.”
Another commented: “I thank you for your most considerate and kind letter of support to myself and my family and would like to say how much I appreciate it.”
IQ CEO James Thorne said: “We are delighted that the launch of our virtual coffee mornings has been well-received, which is why we’re making these a regular occurance. Being an IQ member not only supports you throughout your career but through the IQ Benevolent Fund, we can support you throughout your life.”
Established in 1925, the IQ Benevolent Fund (IQBF) has helped many members and families over the years facing financial uncertainties because of long-term illness, disability or death.
