A NEW scheme tackling loneliness and social isolation among the elderly has been launched in Winsford.

Brightlife allows health professionals to refer vulnerable patients directly into a range of activities and services available locally.

The new Social Prescribing scheme, a Big Lottery-funded partnership led by Age UK Cheshire, held a launch event at the Dingle Centre on Wednesday, February 24.

The event was opened by Cllr Ailsa Gaskill-Jones, mayor of Winsford, with support from councillors Mike Kennedy, Gina Lewis and Stephen Burns.

Cllr Gaskill-Jones, said: “Social isolation has a big impact on wellbeing, so the fact that Brightlife are running a social prescribing scheme in Winsford is fantastic.

“We at the town council are very supportive of Brightlife being here, and we look forward to working with them in the future.”

Representatives from a number of mid Cheshire organisations attended the launch, including Cheshire West and Chester Older People's Network, Vale Royal Clinical Commissioning Group, the Deafness Support Network and Weaver Vale Housing Trust.

Mandy Roberts, Brightlife engagement and volunteer manager, said: “Brightlife is about reducing isolation and loneliness across Cheshire West and Chester.

“Social Prescribing gives us a practical way to do this, by helping older people who are socially isolated to connect more with their communities.

“I’m delighted that we are here in Winsford today to launch this service.”