AN action plan has been launched today to tackle loneliness and improve the lives of isolated people in Copeland's rural communities.

Copeland mayor Mike Starkie has identified loneliness and social isolation as a significant issue in the district.

Copeland Borough Council is working in partnership with Age UK West Cumbria, to run the Community Connections Project.

The vision is to support communities across Copeland to address loneliness, which has been regarded as great a threat to health as smoking, by using community solutions and support.

Mayor Starkie said: “Addressing loneliness in a rural borough like ours is a priority for us and essential for the health and wellbeing of our most isolated and vulnerable residents.

"Two thirds of over 65s in Copeland live in rural areas where they are at greater risk of isolation. More than 55 per cent of these live alone.

“Age UK have also identified loneliness as a local priority and I am delighted we are working together on this. Through more public awareness campaigns, volunteer-led activities and ‘community agents', we hope communities will become more resilient to loneliness, and the wellbeing of isolated people will improve.”

The launch of the Community Connections Project was taking place today at the De Lucy Centre, in Egremont.

Mary Bradley of Age UK said: “This project will not only help deliver the priorities identified by the mayor, but will also enable lonely and isolated people to connect with others in their community and improve their health, wellbeing and ability to live independently.

“With the mayor’s support and that of local volunteers, we are excited to tackle loneliness and make a real difference to Copeland’s most isolated and vulnerable people.”

More information about the project and information about volunteering is available at the Age UK West Cumbria website www.ageuk.org.uk/westcumbria/

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