For local residents like Geoffrey Jones, a simple phone call can make a huge difference, especially at Christmas.

Mr Jones has been using the Red Cross Telecross service for the past four years, since his retirement. 

“I look forward to the phone call each day, it makes a lot of difference to my life”, the former fruit grower said.

“It makes me feel a lot better, getting the call.”

Born and raised in the New England, Mr Jones used to run an orchard and was a big supplier of apples and pears to buyers, in areas including Walcha and Inverell.

“I had 60 acres and three permanent men … I do miss the work, but I still have some Angus cattle and a vegetable garden which keeps me busy,” Mr Jones said.

“I used to like to talk to the lady over at Lismore … we would talk for an hour or more on the phone.”

While there are many Telecross recipients like Mr Jones across the region, there are currently a limited number of volunteers, and none in Armidale.

That is why the Red Cross is calling for volunteers to join the team.

NSW State Lead Social Inclusion Lona Kuchey said Telecross volunteers support frail, aged, disabled and isolated people to live in their own homes in communities they know and love.

“For people who have limited contact with family or friends, a phone call from Red Cross on Christmas Day makes a world of difference,” Ms Kuchey said. 

“It’s especially important at Christmas, which can be a really tough time for many people.

“That reassuring phone call translates into better health, happiness and safety.”

Two thirds of the daily Telecross phone calls go to people aged over 80, with a further 27 per cent to people aged between 65 and 80. 

The daily phone call lasts a few minutes and is made by a trained volunteer, who can activate an emergency response if a call is unexpectedly not answered.

Australian Red Cross chief executive officer Judy Slatyer said the strength of Telecross is in the trained volunteers.

“We’re founded on a spirit of volunteer service,” Ms Slatyer said.

“People see us in emergencies, but they might not know we’re quietly working away at creating safe, healthy, secure communities.”

Red Cross has launched its festive season fundraising appeal, calling for supporters to donate to local social inclusion programs, like Telecross, and other community-led programs around Australia and in our region. 

To donate to the Red Cross this Christmas, or to become a Telecross volunteer, visit www.redcross.org.au