This episode, our theme is ‘trapped’ - and how, for some, like the elderly and domestic violence victims, home might not be the safest space to be in. In another story, one of our reporters thought he had found a scammer but ended up meeting someone who is actually pretty awesome. Speaking of awesome, we spoke with some artists who, despite the challenges they're facing, are still pretty optimistic about what art and music can do for us in these isolating times. We will also share with you good news about connecting with others, including the importance of using the right language. And for you single people: today might be the best time to find someone (just make sure you practice safe social distancing practices!). This episode is all about feeling trapped in circumstances that can make us feel quite confronting and lonely. Our hope, through this podcast, is that you will not feel alone and even the worst of stories can be all of ours to share. We are in this together, and the key of surviving this, as you will hear, is by being there for each other. Warning: the episode contains descriptions of violence.
Show Notes
Stay Home
For now, staying home is our safest option to ensure our health and safety. But for those in the community experiencing family violence, home is often the most unsafe place they can be. Where can victims go when they have been told to stay home?
Warning: This story includes descriptions of violence against women in abusive relationships.
Reporter: Alexandra Middleton
The Right Words for Loneliness
During the last month we adjusted to a new ‘normal’. One of staying at home and being socially distant to help slow the spread of Coronavirus. The term ‘social distancing’ has become part of society’s everyday vernacular. But the phrase is proving to be more isolating than intended.
Reporter: Phoebe Humphrey
Elderly in isolation
For most of us, our time in lockdown has consisted of Zoom meetings, Netflix watch parties and daily iso walks to get some fresh air. But for some, going online or outside is simply out of the question. Australia’s elderly population have been told to stay home for their own safety, but what happens when they still need help? And will these few months leave them more alone than ever? We hear from Robert, 92, who, despite the challenges he faces, is still pretty upbeat.
Warning: This story contains descriptions of Christmas in 1967 (which is always a sign of a good story!)
Reporter: Eliza Sears
COVID-19’s impact on local arts and music
During the bushfire season, arts and music events raised millions of dollars in aid by bringing people together. But when the artists and musicians have lost a lot of their traditional sources of income, who is going to raise millions of dollars for them? COVID-19 has changed lives of many of these artists and musicians. What does this mean for the arts and music industry, which relies so much on live events and mass gatherings, and what will they do?
Reporter: Leyla Arrykova
Scams and pandemics
Natural disasters can bring out the best and the worst in people. Some want to help those around them in any way they can, while others can get a little bit selfish. But then there are other people who try to make money off those who have fallen into hard times. As journalists, we are trained to be skeptical. But the reality could often be more interesting. What looked like a scam or a soulless bot turned out to be something else.
Reporter: John Moyle
Dating in isolation
Relationships are tricky at the best of times. So what happens when you add a global pandemic and a strict stay at home rule into the mix? For many of us, the answer is not a positive one. But that doesn't have to be the case. Here's a story to help you handle love and relationships when you can’t even leave your house.
Reporter: Jess Boland
What is Under Cover?
Under Cover is not just a podcast. It's a phone call, a voice message left for those who are lonely, confused or just need someone to talk to them at this time of isolation. It's a warm and friendly midnight radio for the world. It is a good friend who is informative, trustworthy and is there for you - with stories, songs and sounds to make you feel connected. With yourself, with your friends, with your world.