Parish Forum Friday 27th September 2018 Community Connectors Parish Forum Friday 27th September 2018

Aims of Presentation The aims of this presentation are to: Introduce the Community Connectors Scheme Explain how the Community Connectors will work in Stafford Show example of outcomes in other areas

Background Stafford & Surrounds Health & Wellbeing Group priority: Supporting people to maintain good health, mental wellbeing, and their independence as they get older 7,100 older people living alone in Stafford (Census 2011) Predicted to rise to 12,700 by 2024 24,000 people in the Borough have a limiting long-term illness Approximately 1,500 people are recorded with depression on GP registers Loneliness can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day (Holt-Lunstad, 2015). Stafford has an ageing population which is predicted to increase Loneliness can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day (Holt-Lunstad, 2015). People registered with depression aged 16+

Primarily aimed at older people who are suffering with loneliness and isolation. Older people are defined as 60+, however connectors will not turn people away who are under this age bracket.

Connectors are volunteers who will be focussing on their own area, coordinated by Stafford Borough Council Connectors are walking, talking leaflets. Offering information on services, local groups/activities and will accompany individuals to groups if they are lacking in confidence. Anyone can refer into a connector e.g. self referal, friend/family member, health professionals 100% free to access a connector but there may be charges to attend groups/activities

Stafford Community Connectors 8 Volunteers attended training day 4 Active Community Connectors: Holmcroft & Common Stone, Walton & Oulton Brocton & Baswich Rising Brook Partner Organisations: Connectors are currently based at Holmcroft Youth & Community Centre, Stone Community Hub and Weeping Cross Health Centre Interested partner organisations attended a stakeholder meeting in order for me to make them aware of the scheme but to also get their input in the best way for them to refer people into the Connectors and vice versa

*Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations, 2018

Case Study: Pauline's Story Problem: Suffered a Stroke Stuck at home for over 2 years Lonely and Bored Barrier: Transport: has a mobility scooter but unable to use it in the winter due to the cold and the rain Bob (Community Connector) met with Pauline and found out what her wants and needs were; Signposted her to Holmcroft Luncheon Club and introduced Pauline to one of the members who agreed to give her a lift; Pauline now looks forward to going each week Enjoys the day where she has company and has made friends Wakes up knowing she has had a lovely day and spent time with her friends

Contact Richard Upton: Health & Wellbeing Support Officer Email: CConnectors@staffordbc.gov.uk Telephone: 01785 619675

Thank you & Questions