Grants scheme comfort for over-50s

Staffordshire County Council's social care and health department has unveiled a grant scheme for older people.

Through the Health for Older People grants scheme, community and voluntary organisations are being invited to submit bids to deliver programmes which aim to improve the lives of people aged 50 and over in the county.

Small community groups can apply for grants of £500 to support them in their work, and larger voluntary organisations have the opportunity to apply for grants of between £1,000 and £10,000.

Cabinet member Councillor Matthew Ellis, who officially launched the scheme, said: "This scheme provides a great opportunity for the voluntary and community sector to develop the work they do in local communities with older people.

"Working with and supporting these organisations will mean that there will be a wider range of wellbeing services accessible locally, supporting older and vulnerable people in the community and enabling them to live their lives the way they choose."

"There are already many resources out there supporting older people.

"We want to encourage groups to think about how they can best use these grants to extend their work or perhaps develop new projects.

"Focusing on an area such as improving community transport, for example, can increase access to local facilities and social activities, allowing people to feel less isolated and more part of their community.

"Other examples such as healthy luncheon clubs, befriending schemes and exercise classes specifically for older people are also helping to accomplish the aims of this scheme."

The closing date for applications is January 4. A guidance and application pack has been developed to support groups in their applications. Joint applications are also welcomed.

For more information about the Health for Older People grants scheme or to request an application pack, contact Shelley Davis on 01785 278279 or 07815 826811 or email shelley. davis@staffordshire.gov.uk