A community scheme in Whetstone has helped residents who are vulnerable and in need of neighbourly assistance in the village for the 500th time in just over 15 months.
The Whetstone Good Neighbour Scheme is a group of committed volunteers from the local community who undertake everyday tasks, including lifts to the shops and hospital, completing applications and changing a lightbulb.
Volunteers have helped the 44 scheme users in a wide-range of ways.
The early runaway success of Whetstone’s Good Neighbour Scheme saw it win “Best Community Group” at last year’s Outstanding Achievement Awards after receiving nine nominations from the local community.
Betty Tilston, who nominated the group and uses the service, said of the scheme:
“It has helped me and my friends to live an independent life, which would be very dull and lonely without them.”
Good Neighbour Schemes have been backed by Blaby District Council, who help to establish a scheme in the local community and to advise on funding available.
Croft, Sapcote and Sharnford also have volunteers supporting residents in their villages.
Councillor Sheila Scott, Portfolio Holder Planning, Housing Strategy, Economic and Community Development, said:
“I want to congratulate the Whetstone Good Neighbour Scheme for reaching their 500th job so quickly.
“This highlights the community spirit and dedication from volunteers to help more vulnerable members of the village.
“I cannot express how proud I am of Whetstone and our other schemes for their commitment to the local community. I hope they are an inspiration for people across the district to start up a scheme in their village.”
Barry Fisher, Chairman of Whetstone Good Neighbour Scheme, said:
“The whole team of volunteers are delighted with the positive feedback we receive from our users, who often describe the scheme as a vital part of their ability to live an independent, fulfilled and inclusive life.”
The Council is committed to helping volunteers who want to establish Good Neighbour Schemes in the district. For more information, email strategic.partnerships@blaby.gov.uk or call 0116 272 7566.
Find out more about Whetstone Good Neighbour Scheme by visiting www.whetstonegns.org.uk.