Jack Brereton has welcomed the news that Stoke-on-Trent will benefit from £1.1 million in new funding from the Government to create volunteering opportunities and support those experiencing or at risk of chronic loneliness.
Recent research has found that those living in the most deprived areas are more likely to report feeling lonely and that certain types of volunteering opportunities have been shown to help connect communities and help people develop skills and grow their networks.
That is why the Government is investing up to £30 million into the 27 most disadvantaged areas through the Know Your Neighbourhood Fund to support more than 15,000 volunteers and participants to take part in activities such as talking cafes, skills sharing sessions, arts and crafts groups and environmental conservation. This will give those the opportunity to build social connections in libraries, museums, arts organisations, and charities.
Over £13 million has been allocated by UK Community Foundations and Arts Council England to create high quality volunteering opportunities across the country and support people experiencing, or at risk of, loneliness. Historic England has also distributed nearly £500,000 to support programmes being delivered on 11 high streets to support volunteers to take part in cultural activities.
Jack Brereton, Member of Parliament for Stoke-on-Trent South said:
“I am very pleased to hear that £1.1 million will be invested into volunteering opportunities, charities and local organisations in Stoke-on-Trent to help combat loneliness. Especially with the winter months approaching, loneliness can affect the most vulnerable groups.
Those receiving funding include organisations like The Hubb Foundation, Urban Wilderness, and Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. These are only some of the many fantastic organisations who will be given extra funding to provide more services, events and volunteers to help tackle loneliness and improve mental wellbeing.
The fantastic volunteers, charitable and community organisations we have is our area are some of our greatest assets and they continue to do incredible work across North Staffordshire. This additional funding will enable them to provide extra opportunities, allowing those experiencing loneliness to meet new people and socialise at fun and engaging local events."
Civil Society Minister, Stuart Andrew said:
“Loneliness is something anyone can experience, at any time. We know that volunteering can help people connect, as well as improving mental wellbeing and helping people develop new skills.
This funding will mean those in some of the most disadvantaged areas across the country are able to volunteer in an area that interests them. From arts groups to skills development workshops, there are thousands of ways for people to get involved, meet new people, and try new things.”
List of projects receiving Know Your Neighbourhood funding:
For further information or interview, please contact:
Email: jack.brereton.mp@parliament.uk
Telephone: 01782 922525
