Loneliness and social isolation are significant problems across our nation but is especially prevalent in our rural areas due to poor transport, dispersed populations and reduced access to services. They affect people of all ages but perhaps the most vulnerable are our ageing population. We know from experts that social isolation is the biggest challenge facing our ageing society with many older people fearing loneliness more than lack of money or deteriorating health.

The Re-Connect service aims to re-connect socially isolated, mainly older people, with community friendship and support through a volunteer Enabler. Our scheme is running in partnership with national charity Linking Lives UK, who have been equipping parish churches and local voluntary organisations to respond to loneliness in their communities since 2012.

Re-Connect Enablers work with individuals in blocks of 6 weeks for up to 3 months, or 6 months in extreme circumstances, with a view to supporting them in discovering/rediscovering their own social activities. Volunteers will support, gently coach and encourage each person to set their own goals towards reconnection. This will be achieved by agreeing small steps which they will work through to reach their ultimate ambition of building a social network and independence.

Full training will be given with ongoing support from the Somerset Linking Lives Co-ordinator. An Enhanced DBS is required for this role.

Social Circles CIC

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Social Circles CIC

Photos