A Good Neighbour Scheme is to launch in Long Sutton, Holbeach, Sutton Bridge and the surrounding area.
Good Neighbour Schemes are community-based projects run and delivered by a ‘not for profit’, volunteer-led local group of Good Neighbours.
A spokesman for the East Elloe Good Neighbour Scheme said it aims to enhance the quality of life for residents by helping people over the age of 18, do the sort of tasks that good neighbours would lend a hand with.
This could include companionship, form filling, letter writing, shopping, fetching prescriptions, changing library books, dog walking, light gardening or watering plants on a short-term basis when you are unable. Services are primarily aimed at the elderly, disabled, vulnerable, frail, lonely and those living alone. Help is given free although a reasonable charge is made for transport mileage.
There are currently successful Good Neighbour Schemes in Lincolnshire, including a Gosberton and Quadring GNS.
The scheme is assisted by Community Lincs, part of YMCA Lincolnshire supported by such organisations as: Long Sutton St Mary’s Church, Holbeach All Saints’ Church, HealthWatch Lincolnshire, Welland Seniors’ Forum, Wellbeing Lincs, Long Sutton Men’s Shed, Lincolnshire CVS, Children’s Links, Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue and Churches Together East Elloe.
Chair Rev Jonathan Sibley said: “We all know what it is like to live in the rural community of South Lincs and of the impact this has on social isolation. Our Good Neighbour Scheme is intended to reduce some of those difficulties and offer the practical help, care and compassion we all deserve at times of need. Whether you are offering time as a volunteer or need a greater sense of neighbourliness, the offer is there for you.”
A resident survey has been launched to establish the demand for a Good Neighbour Scheme and provide an indication of how many people are willing to volunteer.
Surveys are being distributed locally and should be returned to a collection point or via freepost by March 31.
Alternatively, the survey may be completed online via www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/longsuttonholbeachsuttonbridgesurroundingarea
