Anne-Marie told RNZ that after filling out the form to request a caller late last year, she did not hear back. (Stock image) Photo: 123RF
A Hamilton woman says she still has not been connected with a Hato Hone - St John Caring Caller months after asking for support.
The volunteer-run service provides free calls to people experiencing loneliness.
Anne-Marie told RNZ that after filling out the form to request a caller late last year, she did not hear back.
"I feel like I've been punched in the stomach.
"You reach out for help from someone and hear absolutely nothing, not even an acknowledgement of receipt or a referral."
Anne-Marie said she recently called the Hato Hone St John service and was told by staff they were working through a backlog of about 20 people still waiting.
St John National Community Care Manager, Melanie Young, did not address a backlog of waiting callers but in a statement acknowledged that they were diligently handling enquiries following an unusually high demand from clients seeking to connect with volunteers.
"We appreciate the patience and understanding of those who have recently enquired about our Caring Caller service.
"Due to the Christmas break and subsequent public holidays, our team is currently experiencing a higher volume of enquiries than usual."
Young said everyone who contacted them would be connected with a team member as soon as possible.
She said outside of public holiday periods they aimed to respond to requests within two weeks.
St John recently called for more volunteers to help run the service, which currently numbers 600 trained callers.
The service has been running for more than 25 years and makes regular phone calls to people who are feeling lonely or socially isolated, offering companionship and support.
To sign up visit the St John website.
Anne-Marie did not want her last name used for privacy reasons.
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