A PROJECT to stop loneliness and isolation among pensioners has been awarded almost £400,000.

Southend Association of Voluntary Services (Savs) has been granted £378,511 to fund Folk Like Us.

Isolation and loneliness are significant issues particularly among those who may have lost a partner or who find getting out and about more difficult.

To combat the problem the Big Lottery Fund handed over a cheque on Friday at the Savs Centre, Alexandra Street.

Guest of honour for the event was 95-year-old member, Irene Eaton.

She said: “I have lived in Southend all my life and after losing my husband 11 years ago, I have experienced isolation and loneliness.

“It has been wonderful to be connected with Folk like Us as it has given me friendship and got me out of the house.

“I am now using services I never knew existed. I am delighted that more isolated people can benefit from this crucial project.”

The three years of funding will be used to provide support and opportunities to residents in Southend who struggle day-to-day with loneliness.

Since Folk Like Us was created, the project has supported 200 pensioners in the area.

Speaking about the project, Anthony Quinn, manager of Turning Tides, said: “We have seen first hand the huge impact this project has on isolated and lonely people.

“Funding ensures the work can continue and also move in new directs to offer more avenues for older people to re connect to their community. ”

Currently, the project holds support groups and services for residents in the Savs Centre, every Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm.

They also offer home visits to elderly residents who are disabled and cannot easily get to the centre to receive support.

The huge funding boost will be used to provide four new services by the project.

The Big Lottery Fund grant will give funds for new services, a brand new allotment for the members to come and work on while meeting new people, and opportunities for events that will bring together all the people who use the service with a guest speaker.

Alison Semmence, SAVS chief executive, said: “We are delighted to secure further funding. We will continue to strive to eliminate isolation and loneliness amongst our older community. This project changes the lives of older people and compliments other services aligned to older people.” To find out more about the project, call Turning Tides on 01702 356070.