Regional Voices wishes to highlight the work of  voluntary and community sector projects from around the regions, in finding innovative ways to meet need and develop social care.

SERVE hospital discharge and after care service provides support to Older People across East Northamptonshire and parts of Wellingborough. Serve created a “Think Home First” rapid response team to facilitate hospital discharge, providing advice and advocacy.  The project won in two categories at the National Health and Social Care Awards in 2010 and saved the NHS £900,000 through the number of bed days saved. Serve OEM Case Study

Wayfinder Kensington and Chelsea was set up by Age UK to offer a single point of contact for older people, health and social care practitioners, agencies and individuals. It provides a comprehensive, up-to-date signposting service, staffed by volunteers and paid staff. Volunteer Wayfinders  assist people to access services by providing encouragement, escorting and buddying. The project also trains volunteer neighbourhood ambassadors from active local older people who are dynamic in reaching those more isolated.

Ambitions  in Kirklees, West Yorkshire is an award winning  works with young people and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities – it provides a range of empowering activities including independent living and work skills through a range of practical experiences and supported work placements within the local community. The organisation is almost entirely funded through personal budgets. Ambitions works with around 30 young people and offers an individualised programme for each young person. Activities inclue fitness classes, working on an allotment, running a small business selling produce and supporting primary school children to create a school garden.

Age UK Northamptonshire has been sub-contracted by Nestor Primecare to provide flexible care to people at the end of their lives and their families. Typically, support is provided over an 8 week period and may include domicillary services and sitting during the night, flexible around the needs of the family. Between December 2010 and April 2011,  Age UK enabled 37 people to die at home, through this service.  Age UK Updated 2012 OEM Case Study