Staying Put Project Starts

4 April 2005

Argyll and Bute’s Better Neighbourhood Services recently appointed two outreach workers - Janette Stewart and Peter Walker – to run their Staying Put Project in Lismore.  The project aims to reduce isolation by offering services to keep older people in their homes, allowing them to live independently and to participate fully in island life.

When the wheelchair accessible transport arrived on the island on 4 April, Maureen Robertson, Development Officer for the project, was on hand to introduce the scheme. Janette and Peter will work half a week each and provide the following: a keeping in touch service so people have access to social activities, services, and can visit friends and family; the installation of Telecare Technology Equipment to add safety in the home; a lunch and social clubs; short breaks for carers; and information and support to claim the benefits they are entitled to. The service, which is funded by the Scottish Executive, is for those over 65 with no access to private transport and who cannot access public transport.

Councillor Elaine Robertson, who fought hard to get Lismore included in the scheme, said it was a great day for Lismore and that it would be a  boost to the quality of life  and complement the care given by the medical staff, home helps etc.

Nurse Practitioner Mairi Perkins, who will be supervising the scheme, agreed and said that she already had many ideas about how the scheme will work but will welcome input from workers and service users.

Photos show the vehicle arriving and Maureen Robertson. Mairi Perkins, Janette Stewart, Peter Walker, and Councillor Robertson