Partners pledge support to back loneliness campaign
The Highland Community Planning Partnership Board have given their full support to a campaign running across the Highlands to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
The Board, made up of representatives from The Highland Council, NHS Highland, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Natural Heritage, the Third Sector and a number of other organisations, met at the end of June to consider options for a breakthrough achievement for 2016. At the meeting all agreed to sign up to the campaign launched by NHS Highland to reduce loneliness and isolation and in doing so the Board will now focus on encouraging as many staff as possible to make a pledge to take action.
Community factors that influence loneliness and social isolation can include access to transport, neighbourhood safety and personality.
Chair of the Board Councillor Margaret Davidson said: “Loneliness and social isolation is a significant issue that impacts on individuals, communities and services across the Highlands. There is increasing evidence about the effects on health and wellbeing and the impact on demand for services which is why all Board members are very supportive of this worthy cause. Any breakthrough achievement must make a significant difference to our communities and there is huge potential to make a real difference by harnessing the efforts of our staff both in their professional roles and in supporting them to take action within their communities.
“In making this commitment to encourage staff to support the campaign the Community Planning partners can make a substantial difference to the lives of many people.”
People can find out more details about the campaign and how they can get involved at the following links:
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/NHSH_ReachOut
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/NHSHReachOut
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/NHSHighlandReachOut/