In September 2015, Braunstone Blues were awarded £1,770 from Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation. Funding was secured to cover the purchase of hot water bottles and keep warm leaflets that were then distributed to vulnerable and at risk older people living in Braunstone. The campaign aimed to cut cold related deaths.
In November 2015 the Braunstone Blues held an educational and social event that targeted people who were over fifty years old and living in Braunstone. The theme of the event was winter health and also provided information on alleviating social isolation and fuel poverty and promoting positive mental health.
Over 160 residents attended the event, which was a 1940’s themed tea dance. There was a singer and dance instructors. Soup was also served made from ingredients grown in the community allotments.
The Assistant Chief of Police, Assistant Chief of the Fire Service and Area manager of the Ambulance Service all attended the event and helped with serving food to the residents.
At the event residents were asked about any issues that they may be facing. They were offered a free home visit from the Braunstone Blues which aims to address some of the problems mentioned above, and check people’s home security and safety.
A free Home visit pack was also given to the residents in attendance. Amongst other things, the pack contained a hot water bottle funded through Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation.
A resident who attended the event and booked a home visit said, “I really enjoyed the winter warmer event, it is so nice to have things like this in the community. Since my home visit I now attend a keep fit class that was recommended to me. I do arm and leg exercises and standing shoulder movements. It has helped me a lot and now my walking is much better. I think that I am now less likely to fall.”
If you would like to set up your own fund that works to support charities and groups in the local community, contact Katy Green, Chief Executive at Leicestershire and Rutland Community Foundation: katy.green@llrcommunityfoundation.org.uk & 0116 2624 916.
