Grant scheme to tackle loneliness

Community groups across South Cambridgeshire are being encouraged to bid for funding aimed at helping older residents live independently at home, for longer.

Around £20,000 is available as part of the Council’s Mobile Warden grants, which aim to combat loneliness and social isolation.

By taking advantage of this, it means older people continue living in the community they know, and which knows them.

During the last year, the Council supported 11 schemes covering 20 villages in this way, which led to around 380 elderly residents receiving this service.

Mobile Wardens are trained to understand the needs of the people they visit, and can help point out what other services they may be eligible for that could help keep them living at home. They may also help with practical tasks like light shopping, booking appointments, form-filling and the collection of prescriptions.

The Warden schemes are complementary to statutory care services, and don’t duplicate or replace the medical or social care services that individuals may also require. 

Cllr Sue Ellington, South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “We know that visits and calls from Mobile Wardens make an enormous difference to the quality of life for our elderly residents. They’re seen as a vital community-based service.

“Tackling loneliness is a passion of mine and an area that I’m putting a lot of energy into. This scheme is one of many ways that we as a Council are trying to reach out to people who may feel isolated or cut-off.

“This programme provides significant benefits at a relatively low cost, so I’d really encourage community groups to apply for this funding now, so they can keep making a difference in their villages.”

Applications from new or existing community schemes that provide a Mobile Warden service are welcomed until 5pm on 19 January 2018.

Visit www.scambs.gov.uk/content/mobile-warden-scheme-grants for the criteria, guidance notes and application form.