Community support for 'isolated' North Somerset residents
More than 100 people committed to the campaign last year and organisers hope 2016 will be even more successful.
Judith Brown, NSCP chief executive, said: “Winter can be a challenging time for older people so it’s important we all lend a hand and look out for our neighbours, friends and relatives.
“Small acts of kindness towards other people can give you a real sense of purpose – they also really enhance the lives of older people who may be isolated and lonely.”
Cara MacMahon, chief executive of Voluntary Action North Somerset, added: “Cold weather can have serious effects on older people’s health – Age UK suggests that one older person dies every seven minutes from the cold.
“Eating well and keeping warm in winter is particularly important for people aged 65 and over in order to avoid health issues.
“We know that volunteering has health benefits and I would really encourage anyone able to lend a hand to do so – it will be good for your health as well as those you help.”
Lend a Hand also aims to ensure elderly people know how to access healthcare services if they become unwell during winter, with people aged over 65 becoming more susceptible to health risks such as high blood pressure, heart attacks and stroke as a result of colder weather.
Lend a Hand is also being run alongside the NHS Stay Well This Winter campaign and North Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group’s Right Care, First Time drive which is aimed at easing pressure on accident and emergency departments.
Click here for more information on the Lend a Hand campaign.
