With almost £150,00 worth of support already distributed to help the elderly and isolated, the Erdington Neighbourhood Network Scheme (NNS) contract has now been extended for another 12 months.

Co-ordinated in partnership between Witton Lodge Commmunity Association and Compass Support, Erdington NNS is a locality and constituency based network of organisations and individuals, funded by Birmingham City Council, which enables engagement with community assets to support older people to live independent and connected lives.

Providing bespoke support to people in Erdington, Perry Common, Stockland Green, Kingstanding, Pype Hayes, Gravelly Hill and Castle Vale, the scheme has already achieved the following:

• Approved 32 small grant applications and 1 Capacity Building
• Created projects which have benefited 1,211 people
• Recruited and mobilised 146 volunteers to support the vulnerable
• Awarded more than £147,000 in grants to fund projects and activities
• Established a Citizens Panel of 30 local residents to help shape services

Health & Wellbeing Development Manager at Witton Lodge,’ Debbie Bates, said: “We have been working very closely with partners and supporters to cultivate a support network of agencies to establish a portfolio of resources which deliver the solutions older people need to overcome challenges like poor physical and emotional health.

“With the COVID19 pandemic presenting even tougher challenges for people, Erdington NNS has continued to engage with our communities and identify those gaps where support and provision is needed. We will continue to be pro-active and deliver the solutions where they are needed most.”

For more information on Erdington NNS and how it could help you please call Debbie Bates on 0121 382 1930 or visit: https://wittonlodge.org.uk/our-projects/living-well/supporting-you/erdington-neighbourhood-network-scheme/