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The Social Welfare Department (SWD) today (May 4) allocated $620,000 for two non-governmental organisations to run designated hotlines to provide an emotional support service for people who came under distress amid recent concerns over the human swine influenza.
The Family Crisis Support Centre (FCSC) operated by Caritas-Hong Kong and the CEASE Crisis Centre by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals have been funded to set up the 24-hour Human Swine Influenza Emotional Support Hotlines as follows:
FCSC : 3162 8883
Crisis Centre : 2455 5859
"The enhanced service is provided in response to the recent global outbreak of human swine influenza and the first confirmed case of the disease in Hong Kong which may have caused anxiety and emotional distress to some members of the public," a spokesman for the department said.
"Some people may feel anxious, insecure and even have excessive fear of contracting the disease, especially those with relatives or friends who are being quarantined. Others may also have great worry on the possible adverse impact on the social and economic conditions that the flu will bring to Hong Kong.
"Individuals or families who may have experienced stress and emotional problems as a result of the flu are welcome to call the hotlines for counselling, support and assistance.
"The hotlines will be manned by registered social workers around the clock. In addition, social workers will provide face-to-face counselling to help individuals and families with emotional problems by strengthening their skills in coping with stress and working out positive ways to face their situation. Referral to other welfare services will be made where appropriate."
The hotlines began operations at 4pm today, initially for a period of six months.
Ends/Monday, May 4, 2009
Issued at HKT 16:34
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