By Duncan Bick

Last updated at 10:27, Friday, 19 October 2012

People who give a helping hand to their community are set to receive assistance themselves.

Cumbria County Council is setting up a network called Neighbourhood Care, putting aside almost £1m for the programme.

This will see organisations given support to set up schemes to help people with tasks they struggle with themselves.

Councillor Eddie Martin, the authority’s leader, said: “Some people already act as good neighbours but in many of our communities there are still people who need extra help with some of the smaller chores that are part and parcel of everyday life.”

Examples of the jobs scheme volunteers could be carrying out include changing lightbulbs, mowing the lawn and shopping.

They could also be there for people who have just come out of hospital and need some support while they recover.

“As communities change and friends and families move away, some people can be left feeling isolated and unable to cope with the little things at home,” Mr Martin said.

Parish councils, community groups and centres and voluntary organisations are expected to be among the applicants wanting to set up a scheme in their area.

Grants will also be available for individual groups which come up with ideas for their area.

In total, the council has earmarked £867,000 for the project.

Mr Martin hopes the project will become as successful and well known as Neighbourhood Watch and community First Responders.

His points were echoed by his deputy, Councillor Stuart Young.

He said: "Most people, if given the choice, would choose to live in their own home as long as they were fit and able to do so. This scheme aims to give people the support they need to enable that to happen."

First published at 10:23, Friday, 19 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk