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Charity status secures elderly scheme future
Corks are being popped by members of an elderly peoples' scheme in Cross Gates after it secured charitable status.
Crossgates and District Good Neighbours has been working with people aged over 60 since it was launched in 2003.
The aim of good neighbours, first set up by Leeds City Council's social services department, was to help build strong links between the district's residents.
It was hoped that providing improved services for older people would help prevent social isolation, encourage independence and enable more older people to live in their own homes.
Between them, members and volunteers run events such as country walks, art classes, coffee mornings, as well as practical help such as shopping trips, DIY and counselling.
Spokeswoman Jacki Lawrence said: "It has gone really well. There are 330 members, which is great, people have really taken it to their hearts."
However, as the project was not a charity, it faced some uncertainty as the end of each financial year approached.
"Our funding was on a year-to-year basis," Jacki said. "We could never be entirely sure we would have the money the following year."
So, 18 months ago, good neighbours leaders decided to apply for charitable status.
Assisted by staff from Voluntary Action Leeds, the application involved changes to the scheme's constitution, the appointment of trustees and the calling of an extraordinary general meeting.
Last month, the charity commission gave the application the thumbs up.
Jacki said: "It was brilliant. We are hoping this will help secure our long term future, as this will help us to plan and hopefully to get the funding we rely on. There is a good atmosphere around, people enjoy taking part, and this good news has given us even more of a lift.
"We also hope to be able to attract more volunteers. We could not operate without them and are desperate to find more."
* For more details about the scheme, or to volunteer, ring (0113) 2606565.
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Friday 18 May 2012
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