New service launched for older people with complex needs in West Northumberland

Older people in Bellingham are set to benefit from a new health and well-being service thanks to funding from the Ray Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund Small Grants Programme, established by wind farm owner Vattenfall at the Community Foundation.

Age UK Northumberland received £9,928 to deliver a programme of support for older people diagnosed with long-term conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and lung disease.  Sessions will take place every Tuesday from 11am – 12pm in Bellingham Town Hall and include exercise, weight management, healthy eating, stress management and breathing techniques.

Anne Robinson, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Age UK Northumberland said:

“Our health can play a major part in our overall well-being and by creating a tailormade programme of support based on individual needs, we know that it is possible to improve the lives of people with long-term conditions.”

Paul Jones, Vattenfall’s Service Leader for the Ray Wind Farm, said:

“I’m pleased to see funding from the Ray Small Grants Programme support Age UK Northumberland’s new initiative to help make a real difference to people’s lives.  I would like to encourage other local organisations to apply for the fund before the deadline of 30th April.”

Pete Barrett, Senior Programme Advisor at the Community Foundation added:

“The Ray Wind Farm Community Benefit Small Grants Programme aims to support projects that improve the quality of life for local people.

“We’re delighted to back this new initiative improving health and wellbeing of older people in rural areas and would also like to announce a new round of funding available to community and charitable organisations in the region.”