Big charity grant for Belford project

The centre had Foundation funding already which paid for a service development manager, who ensures there is support for older people in the region.

It was due to run out next May, but backers were so pleased with the work that was going on that they decided to make the new grant to ensure elderly people in the community continued to get help.

Jane Field, who is the services development manager, said: "We are delighted with and very grateful for the support received from the Northern Rock Foundation. Without their support, this vital work would not continue.

"The recent Northern Rock Foundation award will mean that the charity can continue to develop and expand the services available to support independent living for older people in rural north Northumberland."

Support from the Northern Rock Foundation has enabled the charity to help older people in the rural area, in addition to the facilities available on site.

Services developed include a brokerage scheme, which provides a register of trained care workers for people wishing to arrange their own care at home; a home from hospital scheme offering support to older people on discharge from hospital; and a Luncheon Club, which combats social and rural isolation.

The charity is based in Belford but the project catchment area extends over an area of approximately 120 square miles, to include surrounding rural and coastal villages.

The Bell View site has a community resource centre which includes a volunteer-run community café, internet access, meeting rooms, numerous activities and community transport scheme.

The site also includes an older persons' day care facility with clients attending from Belford and surrounding areas.