Home support project launched for over 50s

IF YOU’RE over 50, in need of a hand, and living in London, then a new service could be for you.

The Federation of Irish Societies has welcomed the news that a unique home support project will be launched in Hammersmith, Fulham and Suffolk in the autumn.

The new service, which targets people over the age of 50, is already up and running in south London — and called the Southwark Circle.

The initiative was started just over a year ago with the help of Southwark Council. Typical members are in the 45-95 age bracket and can avail of security checked helpers and volunteers.

The Federation said: “There’s a huge older Irish presence in Hammersmith, and a service like this, which they can benefit from and contribute to, has the potential to be a brilliant community resource.

“We have always called for a community response service. In light of the demography of the Irish community, it’s one we warmly welcome.” Daniel Dickens from the Southwark Circle explained the process to The Irish Post.

“The Circle comes from the idea that services should fit into people’s lives. It’s self-sustaining. People help each other with practical tasks and become the solution to each other’s problems,” he said.

“If they have something they need help with, they can call a freephone number where they will be connected to the right neighbourhood help. That could be anything from a computer problem to cutting a hedge.”

In Southwark, the services are currently paid for by tokens. Members can purchase three tokens for £30, or five for £45. Each token buys an hour of the volunteer’s time.

Every volunteer and helper is checked and co-ordinators liaise with both the helper and the home owner after each call-out.

The circle also runs events and museum and cinema visits.

■ For more information call 0800 112 3441 or log on www.southwarkcircle.org.uk.