Rallying around for pensioners

The Rally Round website allows residents to log on and ask for help with simple tasks such as changing a lightbulb or mowing the lawn.

A network of friends and family can then carry out the simple jobs between them, keeping their loved ones safe and well in their own home.

The website is being supported by Blackpool Council, meaning the town’s residents can use it free of charge.

There are more than 25,000 pensioners in Blackpool and while many are able to cope independently, others still need help to carry out everyday jobs.

The Rally Round website takes the hassle out of organising for tasks to be completed, with all family members and friends able to log on and agree to do a different piece of work.

Coun Amy Cross, cabinet member for adult services at Blackpool Council, said: “We hope this website will make it easier for older people to request for work to be done.

“At the same time, it can take the pressure off families who can get bogged down organising for these tasks to be completed.”

See www.rallyroundme.com/blackpool