Agenda item

Anna Tummon from Public Health was welcomed to the meeting to speak to the item, and members noted that her role included improving health outcomes at an Area Council Level.

Members were reminded of the recent workshop on social isolation, with the corresponding notes attached Appendix A of the report.  The difference between isolation and loneliness were discussed, and it was acknowledged that isolation is not merely experienced by older people.

A number of options were discussed for taking forward the work on social isolation; however consensus was that additional capacity ought to be sought by employing a worker either on a full or part time basis.  It was suggested that this be explored in more detail and be brought to a subsequent meeting of the Area Council.

All Members supported the provision of a grant search tool to support officers and groups in applying for funding, and it was agreed that Idox be invited to the next meeting of the Area Council to deliver a presentation about their products.

RESOLVED:-

(i)        That options 4 and 5, the commissioning of an organisation to employ a part time or full time worker to support the establishment of activities to help address social isolation, be developed for further discussion by the Area Council;

(ii)       That the Area Council supports the procurement of a grant search tool and invites Idox to the next meeting of the Area Council to deliver a presentation on its products.