New loneliness project to reach the most frail

Time to Shine, the project ran by Leeds Older People’s Forum to tackle loneliness and social isolation among older people in the city, is already delivering a multitude of services in partnership with charities and organisations.

The latest link-up will see it work with Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in the city to provide tailored services for some of the frailest older people in Leeds, who are already accessing the health and social care system.

Time to Shine said if left unmanaged, frailty can lead to poor health outcomes and the reduced ability to recover quickly from illnesses. But it can be reversed.

The joint effort will aim to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and third sector organisations that can support a preventative approach, instead of the more common reactive approach, whilst also addressing people’s social interaction needs.

It will work with Age UK Leeds, Bramley Elderly Action, Cross Gates and District Good Neighbours, Health for All and OPAL, with matched funding from the local CCGs:

Leeds Council’s executive member for Health, Wellbeing and Adults, said: “Improving support which enables better health, wellbeing and independence for socially isolated and frail older people in Leeds will help us meet the citywide health and wellbeing strategy ambition that older people age well and Leeds is the best city to grow old in.”