‘Sallapam’ Scheme Launched in Alappuzha to Support Elderly Through Phone Companionship

Alapuzha: To address the growing issue of loneliness among the elderly, the Social Justice Department has rolled out Sallapam, a novel scheme in Alappuzha district that pairs senior citizens with trained volunteers over the phone. The initiative is being implemented through the National Elder Line helpline (14567), which aims to provide emotional companionship to older adults who are living alone or isolated.

The government has sanctioned Rs. 4.95 lakh for the financial year 2025–26 to support the district-level implementation of the scheme. As part of the project, five trained “friends” will be available in Alappuzha to engage with elderly callers on a regular basis.

Elder Line, a toll-free helpline (14567) operating between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., is already active in Kerala under the Directorate of Social Justice. The new scheme supplements the existing services by offering regular, informal conversations to those who seek social connection rather than emergency support. According to officials, the helpline currently receives 45 to 50 calls a day from the district on an experimental basis, with many elderly individuals calling simply to speak with someone.

The Sallapam scheme also incorporates student participation, particularly from Master of Social Work (MSW) programmes. Volunteers will undergo a one-day online training session, facilitated by the Institute of Management in Government (IMG) and the National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH), before being paired with elderly callers. Each volunteer who commits to a minimum of six months will receive a certificate and a stipend of Rs. 500 per month to cover phone recharge expenses.

In addition to phone-based interaction, the scheme allows provision for direct services, where volunteers may visit or assist elderly individuals in person. Travel-related expenses can be reimbursed, with a ceiling of Rs. 63,250 set for the district as part of the total budget allocation.

Officials note that the initiative is not only expected to improve the mental and emotional well-being of senior citizens but also provide valuable field exposure to social work students. “The engagement is mutually beneficial,” the official added. “Elderly citizens get companionship, and students learn how to provide psycho-social support in a structured way.”

The scheme is currently being piloted in Alappuzha, with plans for scaling it up across other districts based on feedback and performance metrics. The Department has hinted at refining the volunteer training modules and expanding partnerships with colleges and NGOs in the coming months.

Citizens seeking assistance or companionship under the scheme can call the ElderLine helpline at 14567 during operating hours.

For more information: Visit sjd.kerala.gov.in or contact the District Social Justice Office, Alappuzha.