New partnership launched in county

Volunteer groups have embarked on a new collaboration, with the hope that other organisations will join them in future.

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin have established a new partnership, funded by Shropshire Council, which sees five voluntary sector organisations come together across Shropshire to develop a range of services promoting wellbeing and independence.

The Wellbeing & Independence Partnership (WIPS) comprises: Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin (Age UK STW), The Mayfair Centre, Oswestry Qube, Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) and Shropshire Rural Communities Charity (SRCC).

Heather Osborne, chief executive of Age UK STW, said: "We are really delighted to secure this funding from the council and very excited to be working in this new partnership.

"As voluntary and community sector organisations we have always worked closely with one another but this partnership provides the opportunity for us to take this to the next level, working together to provide, develop and improve services which will help people across Shropshire improve their well-being."

A number of other organisations have expressed an interest in joining the partnership and the hope is that it will grow and develop for the future. A wide range of services will be provided by the partners including help at home, befriending, living well activities, day services and opportunities for volunteering.

Councillor Lee Chapman, portfolio holder for Adult Social Care said: "Shropshire Council works closely with provider organisations, the voluntary and community sector and our residents to make sure we provide services that are effective and value for money. The services delivered by WIPS in communities across Shropshire are important and valuable, supporting people to stay well and independent at home - delaying their need for formal care and support.

"We are very pleased to be working with the WIPS consortium as all members have long-standing experience of working in our communities, understand them well and have some great ideas about making a difference to the lives of our residents."

The new partnership officially launched on April 1, and can be accessed through a number of routes: directly via Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin on 01743 233123; through any of the other partners; through the council’s First Point of Contact or Let’s Talk Local community hubs.