A group of UCT medical students are doing their part to make the lives of the elderly and most vulnerable during the covid-19 pandemic a bit more pleasant – but from a suitable and safe distance.

UCT’s surgical society (SurgSoc) partnered up with Communicare to adopt a grandpa or grandma. The initiative was launched in July and each volunteer was paired with a Communicare resident based on their common interests and values. InVolunteers were also provided with a list of guiding questions, tips and techniques to assist them with making weekly phone calls to their paired granny or grandpa.

Head of SurgSoc’s social events and outreach, and a fifth-year medical student Alana Williams says this provided an excellent opportunity for bonding, sharing experiences and providing a kind and compassionate listening ear.

To tell us more we are joined by the Head of SurgSoc’s social events and outreach, and a fifth-year medical student, Alana Williams…