Living Well is a set of principles which shape a way of working; it recognises the individual and puts them first with the aim of re-connecting vulnerable people back into their community. When people lose confidence, become isolated and alone, they become increasingly frail. However, with social interaction built around a strong community centred approach, the risk of frailty diminishes.

Age UK Cornwall are working with local GPs and Community Nurses supporting people in their own homes, and through a conversation discover what will make a positive difference to them and their life.  Then, with the assistance of volunteers, we support the person to achieve their goal.  Sometimes it is as simple as getting people back out and into the company that they have missed; sometimes it is finding a way to help a person reach a certain goal or aspiration.

Volunteers are vital to this project and we cannot succeed without them, even if they can give just 1 hour a week, a real difference can be made.  You can give as much or as little time as you can spare, to help people living locally. There are many benefits gained from volunteering – finding new friends and building new relationships, utilising skills and learning new ones, being a part of the community. The opportunities to provide support are endless.

There maybe people in your neighbourhood who would like a little support to connect with others. Here are some examples of what our volunteers are doing:

Karen takes Mary to Bingo, Shirley planted Betty’s window boxes

Jodie helped Moira sort out her paperwork and get to her medical appointments

Julie helps partially sighted Rose with her personal affairs

Jeremy helped John to set up internet banking

If you are interested in finding out more, please get in touch as we would be delighted to hear from you. Our office contact: 01872 266388 or email: email@ageucornwall.org.uk