Shopping bus drives change into town

A bus to help older people and those with mobility issues go shopping has been recognised for reducing social isolation.

The shopping bus in Larkhall is a joint venture between Larkhall & District Volunteer Group (LDVG) and the Our Place Our Plan Strutherhill & Birkenshaw Community Group (OPOP).

It was created after an OPOP consultation which highlighted travel as a priority issue for the community.

The initial bus service runs to Asda and the retail park every Wednesday, picking residents up from their doors and dropping them off again.

The two groups have now received a commendation award from Age Scotland to recognise this creative partnership working and the successful delivery of this project which is supporting the reduction of loneliness and isolation in the local community.

Funding has been secured from Pathways for All “Smarter Choices Smarter Places” programme, which means the bus can continue to run this year.

Sandra Mccrory from LDVG said: “We will be looking to enhance the service over the next few months, with an increase in the number of shops we go to.

“The aim of this funding is to reduce singleoccupancy car journeys by encouraging people to travel together.

“LDVG and the OPOP Community Group will use this time to secure further funding and sponsorship for this much valued service.”

The national development officer for Age Scotland, Linda Anderson, said: “Finding new and creative ways to pull resources and provide opportunities for older people to access services and come together will be key to successfully tackling isolation and loneliness among older people.

“LDVG and OPOP deserve every recognition for all their hard work over the last year to deliver this vital service in the community.”