Chamber joins Supportive Neighbours Scheme – Together we are stronger

Funding from the Coronavirus Community Support Fund, distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, has helped Innovate Volunteering to develop The Supportive Neighbours Scheme in Knowsley and Knowsley Chamber has been so impressed by the scheme we have joined up.

Innovate Volunteering will build on the Community Spirit we saw during ‘Lockdown 1, 2 and 3’ and ensure local people  know how to support and signpost their friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues for support during these challenging times.

The psycho-social impact of Covid-19 has been far-reaching, leaving people of all ages (young people and adults) facing a wide range of different issues including carer breakdown, domestic abuse, finances, mental health issues, suicide, loneliness, child criminal exploitation, anxiety (this list is by no means exhaustive).

“Reaching out for support can be really tough when we are struggling, therefore it is important that we look out for each other, and have the courage to reach out to people who we notice may be struggling” Leanne Mallinson (Co-Director Innovate Volunteering).

The Supportive Neighbours Scheme creates a network of individuals, organisations and businesses, equipped with the knowledge and confidence to reach out to those in need of support, confidently and safely.

Key Deliverables of the Supportive Neighbour Scheme:

  1. ‘Become a Supportive Neighbour’ Training

Mandatory training to become a Supportive Neighbour

  • Session 1: Supporting People
  • Session 2: Boundaries / Staying Safe / Confidentiality
  • Session 3: Making Ever Contact Count / Overview of key issues
  • Session 4: Safeguarding

 

  1. Supportive Neighbours Pack

Upon completion of the mandatory training, delegates become a member of the Supportive Neighbours Network, each receiving a Supportive Neighbours Pack, consisting of:

  • Information Folder
  • Window Sticker
  • Certificate

 

  1. On-going Training and Awareness Raising Sessions

Members are up-dated with emerging themes, key issues affecting local residents, and where to access support.  Sessions (at the request of the members) have included Drugs and Alcohol, Suicide Prevention, Domestic Abuse, Mental Health First Aid, Anxiety, Carer Breakdown, Finances, loan sharks, nutrition.

  1. Weekly Check in & Chat.

Members can access weekly peer network/support meetings (online where they will receive support and up to date information).

5    One to One Support

Members will have access to emotional support and a qualified counsellor, if required

 

Lorna Marshall, Working Well Co-Ordinator & Chamber Business Relationship Manager said: “The training was spread across 2 half-day sessions and was delivered with a friendly and informative approach. Throughout the training, the delegates were put at ease and invited to ask questions throughout. After the sessions I felt equipped to be a Supportive Neighbour and the team at Innovate Volunteering CIC are there to support you every step of the way. The training compliments the wellbeing aspects of the Working Well programme, and Knowsley Chamber are proud to be part of the initiative. The opportunity for workplaces to get involved and be part of the scheme means there is a wider benefit to the community – as you never know when someone might need a little help!”

 

The Supportive Neighbours Scheme will provide

  • FREE training on how to reach out to someone we notice may be struggling
  • FREE awareness training on a whole host of different issues that are affecting our communities
  • FREE weekly check in and chat to ensure everyone feels supported.
  • Access to FREE emotional support via a qualified counsellor
  • You will receive a Supportive Neighbours Pack & Window Sticker
  • All training and support will take place via ZOOM. We have daytime and Evening Courses available.

“Knowing where to find support is often a huge barrier, Supportive Neighbours will build up a file of useful resources and information” – Angela Bergquist (Co-Director Innovate Volunteering)

Commitment

Once training is completed, all we ask is that you look out for each other, and have the courage to reach out if you notice anyone struggling.

Together we can mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on our Communities

For more information please contact Fiona on 07745047690 or email admin@innovatevolunteering.co.uk