AN innovative project to help empower older people living in rural isolation in South Lakeland has received nearly half a million pounds from the Big Lottery Fund.

Age Concern South Lakeland has got over £480,000 to fund a project called Lakeland Village Agents which will support older people living in Ambleside, Grasmere, Arnside, Beetham and Broughton-in-Furness to link up with key local services and those of partner organisations.

The scheme will also establish village action committees to provide a voice for older people on local issues, co-ordinate and set-up services, and recruit volunteers to support older groups.

The project will help enable older people to access emotional and practical advice and support on benefits issues, and establish vital community links to social events such as lunch clubs, exercise clubs and healthy eating and advice sessions.

“Our successful Village Agent pilot has already made a difference for local older people living in nine rural areas of South Lakeland, having directly supported over 800 people in just five months,” said Sonia Mangan, Director for Age UK South Lakeland. “I am delighted that with this support from the Big Lottery Fund we can sustain the work we have already started and work in new remote areas of the Lake District.

“Our Village Agents work with local older people to help them stay as independent as possible for as long as possible by bringing them information, advice and practical support close to where they live."