Crafting project to combat social isolation during coronavirus outbreak

Team JVC Hub, based in Rathcoole, is the practical outreach work of Carrick's Jordan Victory Church.

Following this week's Government advice urging the public to avoid gatherings, the group has come up with a plan to "keep the lines of communication open".

"In light of the current Covid-19 situation we understand that it is not advisable for us to gather at Team JVC Hub. The Health Minister has recommended that we proceed with social distancing," wrote project coordinator, Elaine McCrum.

"Your safety is top priority for us at Team JVC Hub. We know many of you will feel isolated at this time and we want to be able to keep lines of communication open and still have involvement with you.

"We have come up with a plan; we would like to prepare packs for people which will include materials for embroidery and sewing/knitting. Everyone can design and put together squares, we can share ideas via our social media outlet and we can do some live videos to get some ideas together.

"When we are able to get back together again, we will sew/knit all the beautiful hand-stitched, knitted and embroidered squares together and make a community piece to be hung in the Hub.

"This community involvement project we hope will make your days at home a little easier and will keep everyone in touch. For anyone who is self isolating, we are still very much a family in Team JVC Hub and you are so important to us."

Team JVC Hub is funded by Department for Communities through the Rathcoole Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

The programme offers classes such as knitting and crocheting, a positive mental health group, essential skills classes, sewing classes, an over 55s group and a walking group.