Friendship project aimed at tackling loneliness in west Fife

A project has been launched to support vulnerable adults and the elderly across west Fife.

The Friendship Changing Lives Project has been launched by Dunfermline Advocacy to tackle loneliness and social isolation in the area.

Dunfermline Advocacy pairs people up with volunteer citizen advocates who can assist by addressing immediate needs, such as housing, and offering companionship in the longer term.

Chief executive Rachel Annand said: “Dunfermline Advocacy are delighted to announce the launch of our Citizen Advocacy in the Community – Friendship Changing Lives Project.

“The project will help us to expand our work in west Fife supporting vulnerable adults and vulnerable older people experiencing the rising issues of loneliness and social isolation.”

The work, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund for three years, will involve employing a full-time development worker to reach vulnerable adults who are isolated or at risk of becoming isolated.

The organisation will also use its existing community connections to secure referrals.

Paul McKee has joined the team at Dunfermline Advocacy and will be getting the project off the ground.

Ms Annand said: “We are also delighted to have Paul join our small staff team.

“He has a wealth of advocacy experience and is quickly getting to know the west Fife area.”

Mr McKee urged potential supporters to get in touch, adding: “At the heart of this project is the involvement of local people as volunteer citizen advocates.”