Agenda item

Graham Harris and Carol Foster from Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) were welcomed to the meeting to give a presentation on the service to reduce loneliness and isolation in older people.

Members noted a number of case studies, which provided examples of where RVS had responded, assisting older people within the area.

Those present heard about the volunteer experience within RVS, being one of 25,000 volunteering across the country, and one of 298 in South Yorkshire.  It was noted that there were 82 volunteers in Barnsley, of which 18 actively volunteered in the Central Area.  Support was available for those who wanted to volunteer, including online training and mentoring support to develop skills.  Members noted the volunteer events designed to acknowledge commitment and show appreciation.

Over the past 3 years 1,051 users had accessed the service and 5,922 home visits had been undertaken.  754 befriending calls had been made and there had been 845 solutions found to transport issues.  15 social groups had been set up or supported in the area. At Christmas over 300 hampers, and 120 winter warmer packs, were distributed and a number of party events held.

Members noted that 90% of contract expenditure had been in the area, with a social return on investment of £17.40 per £1 of Central Area Council funding.

Feedback from service users had been extremely positive, with 97% saying the service had made a positive impact on their lives.

Members noted that going forward the new contract would have a broader service base, with a wider range of activities.  As a result it was hoped that there would be more opportunities for users to volunteer and also to expand the service user group.

RESOLVED that colleagues be thanked for their attendance, and for the positive impact that the service had made in the area.