Translating COVID-19

It’s no secret that COVID-19 is having a huge impact on the mental health of Australians. In April, Lifeline reported that they received a whopping 3,200 calls in a single day - up 28% on recent years.

Many of whom are young adults, or those recently left without jobs, a number that continues to rise; the Grattan Institute projecting unemployment rates as high as 18% in the coming weeks.

These figures are worrying enough, but the noise generated by constant media reporting makes accessing the latest facts difficult. And for those living in Australia, for whom English is a second language, it’s even harder.

David Hayes, co-founder of multilingual engagement platform, Jeeves.Plus, aims to help. His service allows anyone to communicate via SMS with volunteers who provide up-to-date information on COVID-19, and a friendly ear.

The kicker? Users can speak any language, and the platform automatically converts it to the language of the volunteer, and vice-versa. Jeeves automatically translates 104 languages.

With a simple text to their helpline, 0457 000 000, you’ll receive the latest information and verified resources direct to your phone.

“We already had the platform, so it was a no-brainer we could be using it to help the disadvantaged living in Australia” says David.

“Amid COVID-19, we are all isolated, lonely, fed up, and fast losing contact with the world. So, we wanted to change that. Our service can help those recently unemployed, disaffected youth, or foreign students and workers get advice, direction, support, or simply chat anonymously.”

Jeeves.Plus - traditionally used by tourism bodies and hotels for customer service - is proving a powerful tool to fight disinformation, and fills a void missing from other helpline services in its ability to translate over 104 languages automatically.

“In business, our service has been a useful tool to those hearing impaired - so we’re hoping we can provide a hand to this community too” adds David.

If you’re interested in joining the cause and helping David, there are several ways to do so.

“We’re a small team, so we’re always after volunteers to research the latest information, and respond to messages of those in need".

"It also costs us to maintain the platform, so we’re looking for a sponsorship partner who would like to contribute.”

“But most importantly, if you know someone who is struggling, needs a little support, or maybe speaks limited English, send them our way. We’d love to help them feel a little better.”

To use the service just text the word COVID19 to 0457 000 000, Note, SMS’s cost as per your carrier's standard rates, but are normally free with most plans. Just Text!