Agenda item

Anna Tummon, Health and Wellbeing Officer, was invited to the meeting to present the report, which she had assisted to develop with the previous Area Council Manager.

Members were reminded of previous discussions around social isolation and the decision for officers to develop a number of options.  Three options were presented and discussed by Members, and it was noted that costs were based on the Social Isolation project in Penistone.

Some concern was expressed around volunteers befriending, and assurances were given that appropriate DBS checks and training would be given.

Discussion noted more than just elderly could be isolated, with young parents being given as an example, and that certain geographies could be more isolated due to a lack of transport.

It was suggested that though the options presented seemed appropriate, further work ought to be undertaken to more adequately understand the needs in the area, and what support mechanisms were in existence.  However, it was also acknowledged that by its very nature much isolation may be hidden.

RESOLVED that a workshop is held to discuss social isolation in more detail, mapping known issues in the area and existing provision.