Volunteer scheme expands to help isolation

An expansion of a volunteer scheme in Peterborough is aiming to ensure no resident has to face isolation or everyday challenges alone.

The Good Neighbours scheme is hoping to create local support city-wide and is aimed at those who may be isolated, unpaid carers, or people living with a disability.

Peterborough City Council said as part of the expansion, support would extend to the remaining rural communities while also being introduced across the city's urban areas, starting in Bretton and Westwood.

Its deputy leader Neil Boyce said: "Good Neighbours is about bringing back neighbourliness and recognising the difference that local people can make in their own communities."

The Labour councillor and cabinet member for adult services added: "A friendly conversation, help with a small task or support to get out and about can help someone stay connected and independent."

The council said the scheme would extend support across "the remaining rural communities", reaching further when local volunteer capacity and partnerships are developed.

As part of the scheme, people would be able to volunteer, including befriending, shopping, practical task, wellbeing checks and working with community groups.

"Good Neighbours aims to help residents remain connected and independent and reduce the risk of smaller problems escalating into crisis," a council spokesperson said.

A phased approach to the scheme is being implemented to enable volunteers to be recruited locally.

Stephen Taylor, executive director for adult social care and commissioning at the authority, said: "We have seen how much local volunteers can contribute through small acts of practical help and regular social connection.

"This expansion provides an exciting opportunity to work with communities across Peterborough and make the Good Neighbours offer available to many more residents."

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