Community Connecting …

… and coffee in Corstorphine!

What is Community Connecting?

Community Connecting is a free service for anyone aged over 65 living in the South East or North West areas of Edinburgh. Normally lasting for up to 16 weeks, Community Connecting could help you get out of the house more, take up a new activity or hobby, or even rekindle an interest in an old pastime.

There are many things which can make us less confident about going out or keeping involved in activities. Periods of ill health, changes in circumstance or bereavement can affect our self confidence and cause us to stop doing things we once enjoyed. Sometimes all it takes is a helping and encouraging hand to get back out there and enjoy activities and interests. Community Connecting can help you do this.

We take referrals from health professionals, social workers and community organisations, as well as family, friends, neighbours and self-referrals.

How does it work?

A Community Connector will visit you where you feel comfortable and help you plan what you would like to do in the community.  It might be joining a new group, regaining the confidence to use public transport, a walking aid or wheelchair, to access local facilities or to take up a new interest – anything that you feel you can achieve in 16 weeks.

Your Community Connector will then match you with a fully-trained volunteer who will help support you to meet your personal goals for up to 16 weeks. Your volunteer will visit at least once a week and your Community Connector will be in regular contact to offer guidance on achieving your goals.

Offering a personalised service, Community Connecting emphasises independence and control over your own life. This is proven to help maintain a person’s physical and mental health – as well as that of their family, friends and carers.

Contact us

If you feel that you or anyone you know could benefit from this free service, please contact 0131 558 3728 or email: 

community.connecting@placesforpeople.co.uk

 Community Connecting is a partnership between Places for People Scotland Care and Support and Volunteer Centre Edinburgh

 And that coffee in Corstorphine …