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BCM launch a new project (LITE 60+ - Living Independently Through Empowerment) to help older people in South and East Belfast to continue to live on their own.
LITE 60+ will support local people over the age of 60 who need help to continue to live in their own homes. Services provided include help with the maintenance, safety and security of their homes, help with benefits as well as other practical and emotional support.
The Lord Mayor, Councillor Tom Hartley, who was present at the launch said:
I was delighted to attend the launch of this vital new service for the older people of South and East Belfast. BCM has been providing cross community care and support for the people of Belfast for over 100 years. LITE 60+ continues this rich tradition by offering help to local people based on their ‘need not creed’ and supporting those who need it most in our community."
LITE 60+ (Living Independently Through Empowerment) is a new service provided by BCM, a local charity which has been offering support to local people since 1889. It is designed for older people who will benefit from a time limited period of support (6 weeks up to 2 years). Catherine Apsley, Project Coordinator said:
So many older people desperately want to keep their independence but struggle to do so. We go into their homes and, when we have earned their trust, we work alongside them to improve their quality of life.
It can be as simple as changing their light bulbs, arranging for regular meals to be delivered or having a security door installed where there is greater vulnerability or isolation. It only takes little things to make a big difference and we are really excited to be helping.”
A referral can be made by any community or hospital based health and social care staff. LITE 60+ is funded by Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) and run in partnership with Belfast Health & Social Care Trust.
Brian Rowntree, Chairman NIHE said:
The Housing Executive is very pleased to be associated with BCM. The impact that Supporting People funding in conjunction with BCM’s dedicated team has had on older people’s lives is invaluable. Supporting People aims to develop communities and promotes a strong independent living ethos. We look forward to continuing to work with BCM in the future."
Further information is available on 028 9067 3471 or by emailing fsop@belfastcentralmission.org
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