Independent living scheme to be launched

The Lancashire Wellbeing Service will be run by a consortium made up of N-Compass, Age Concern Central Lancashire and the Richmond Fellowship, on behalf of Lancashire County Council.

The Lancashire Wellbeing Service will in part replace Help Direct and other related services such as Connect 4 Life, Social Prescribing and Health Trainers.

The service will help people to stay well and maintain their independence, it will particularly support people to have improved mental wellbeing and be better able to look after their health and the things that might affect it.

People will be referred by their doctor, health worker or professionals from other agencies that might come into contact with those who would benefit from the service.

County Coun Azhar Ali, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “We’ll be investing more money in the new service than the ones it is replacing.

“Many people are in a situation where one incident could lead to them needing long-term health or social care.

“Research tells us we need to focus on helping people improve their mental wellbeing, make sure they’re not lonely or isolated from their community and provide all they need to live independently.

“The Lancashire Wellbeing Service will help us to do this. ”

The existing Help Direct number, 0303 333 111 will continue to be used.