EXMINSTER-based community health and care charity, Westbank, has received national funding to develop a local social action project, called Neighbourhood Friends, which is helping reduce pressure on hospital admissions over the winter months.

Enhanced support is offered to an identified group of patients aged 75 and over, at high risk of emergency admission to, or delayed discharge from hospital. People are referred to the service by their GP or by a member of a hospital discharge team.

The project is expanding into Crediton and the charity is now looking to recruit a team of 60 volunteers to become Neighbourhood Friends, who will provide support to communities in and around the Crediton area.

Volunteers will help people aged 75 and over to stay well, warm and connected to others in their community.

Westbank’s head of volunteering, Lucy de Garis, said: “We are creating a register of willing neighbours and volunteers who are happy to be called upon when there is a need.

“This is providing a new way for people to offer their help to others who live in their community. In addition it provides the older people for whom the service is designed with practical help and support that genuinely comes from the heart.”

Volunteers can get involved in the project at a level which suits their availability.

“Rapid Response Friends will respond when there is a task that needs doing quickly such as picking up emergency food items or feeding a pet while someone is in hospital.

“Welcome Home Friends will be there to settle people back in to their home on their return from hospital, helping with practical tasks and alleviating anxiety.

“Wellbeing Friends will get involved when more long-term support is needed to help people achieve what they want to achieve – whether that’s helping people with exercises or introducing them to social activities in their community.”

People can offer their support to become a Neighbourhood Friend by contacting the Crediton project team on 01363 774535 or email: [email protected] .

Alan Quick