Richmond will be rolling out an independent service to help adults of all ages to live healthy lives as well as staying connected to their community and to also remain independent.

The Community Independent Living Service (CILS) Partnership launches on November 1st and is also a new service that is made up of 20 local voluntary sector organisations that will work as a free borough-wide network that will offer support, information and advice.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee, said: “Making sure people can remain healthy, happy and in their own homes is a priority for this Council.

"We always aim to put our most vulnerable residents first.

"This is why we have worked with the voluntary sector to redesign our Community Independent Living Service.

“This new partnership will deliver local, flexible, reliable and relevant services to all vulnerable residents across the borough – providing a well-used and invaluable life line for many people.”

Advice, information and support will be offered for a range of social issues like housing, benefits and finances, transport, health and social care.

Wellbeing and leisure will be provided by the Information Navigation service at Richmond AID, as well as supporting people to access relevant services within the partnership and the wider community.

Age UK Richmond will be leading a Health & Wellbeing partnership that will provide a range of wellbeing, social and practical support opportunities.

There will also be social and wellbeing centres for older people which will offer activities, companionship, peer support for people with mental health issues, employment support for people with disabilities, volunteering opportunities, transport for people with limited mobility and integrated therapy for those with neurological conditions.

Lucy Byrne, Chief Executive from Richmond AID, said: “The CILS Information Navigation service is a vital service which supports people to access advice and information on a range of areas and to find out about services.

"We support people to remain or regain independence and get connected to their community.

"We look forward to continuing to work with Age UK Richmond and partners to deliver services.”