SOCIAL isolation hotspot Timperley is getting connected thanks to a £12,000 cash injection.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service will soon be undertaking ‘Safe and Well’ visits to homes in the Timperley area after receiving a grant from the South Trafford Locality Partnership.

Statistics from Info Trafford – the borough’s data observatory – identified Timperley as a hotspot for social isolation and the partnership ring-fenced £12,000 to tackle the growing problem.

Replacing previous Home Safety Checks, ‘Safe and Well’ visits will be carried out by fire service volunteers. Whilst covering fire safety, crime prevention and health and wellbeing, the volunteers will also be trained to identify if someone is suffering as a result of their isolation.

The fire service already comes in contact with residents, of all ages, in need of help and assistance because of social isolation-related problems. The service will work with these residents, referring them to a range of organisations and voluntary sector charities, including Age UK Trafford.

Cllr Laura Evans, chair of the South Trafford Locality Partnership, said: “Social isolation is something which the council recognises as a barrier to people living healthy, happy and fulfilled lives as part of their local community.

“Through close partnership working with other public, private and voluntary sector organisations and agencies, we are committed to helping make a difference.

“Providing grants such as this are an excellent example of us enabling others who are in the best position to support people, to do just that.”