Natasha Wardale lends a helping hand as more people self-isolate

Natasha Wardale is trying to “fill the void of the virus” by helping others in her neighbourhood. Be inspired and learn how to join your local Good Karma Network.

As more people bunker down and self-isolate, some locals are finding new ways to occupy themselves and provide support to all manner of creatures.

Events worker Natasha Wardale said she wanted to do more to help after she and her housemates found themselves with too much spare time.

“I’ve always been able to pick up a contract, but at the moment that’s not happening,” she said.

“I’m trying to keep busy while looking for something to fill the void of the virus.”

Natasha Wardale with her foster cat "Faye" from Ten Lives. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

She said “selfish” panic-buying stories prompted her to offer people, and animals, some extra kindness.

The events worker posted in her local Good Karma Network Facebook group to offer assistance to her neighbours, saying the response was “really positive”.

“I’ve lived in West Hobart my whole life and everyone’s always very giving and sharing,” she said.

“I thought it would be nice to offer people who can’t get out of the house a hand with shopping.

“Even going to the supermarket is a big thing, it takes a lot of energy for some people.”

She said social media, often criticised for causing disconnectedness, was a positive tool for connecting people in troubling times.

“We can still support people by dropping things to people’s homes,” she said.

“My housemates are talking about having board game nights, talent shows and skyping our friends in for dinner parties.”

Ms Wardale said her new-found free time encouraged her to pick up a foster kitten from Ten Lives Cat Centre, as more people are needed to care for the furry felines.

“For younger people, the concern isn’t around getting really ill, but keeping entertained,” she said.

People can join their local Good Karma Network by searching their suburb and “Good Karma” on Facebook.