A PUBLIC meeting is being held at Newton St Cyres where there are plans to establish a Neighbourhood Health Watch?

NHW is all about helping communities support each other's heath needs.

The idea came from a GP who could see that communities do a lot to help each other out and that it would be a good idea to recognise and support those actions within communities.

The type of things being thought about is, for example, neighbours shopping for someone they know who has just come out of hospital; collecting prescriptions for a neighbour who may not be able to get to the surgery or pharmacy; or offering to look after a pet while someone is in hospital; or even offering to clear footpaths for the less able-bodied members of the community in inclement weather.

NHW groups can be supported in ways that they choose to help them engage in such activities which is useful to them and their communities.

At Newton St Cyres it is hoped to find someone who will act as co-ordinator and also find volunteers willing to help their neighbours in times of need.

A free coffee morning has been arranged in the Crown and Sceptre, Newton St Cyres on Thursday, September 13, from 10.30am.

All local residents are invited to go along, whether it be to find out more about the scheme or with a view to becoming a volunteer.

In the meantime, if you would like to find out more about the scheme you can either visit the website: http://www.neighbourhoodhealthwatch.org.uk">www.neighbourhoodhealthwatch.org.uk or call Jayne Clarke on 01392 674112.