A local community support service has been awarded for its work helping older people be better connected.
Melksham Community Support Service won the Local Council Community Project award at the Community First Awards held last month at Devizes Town Hall.
The service, run in partnership between Age UK Wiltshire, Melksham Without Parish Council and Melksham Town Council, offers practical support, advice and companionship to older people. Support includes home visits, signposting to services, and helping people get out and involved in community activities.
The award recognises its ongoing work to improve wellbeing and independence for older people in and around Melksham.
Chief Executive Officer of Age UK Wiltshire, Sarah Cardy, said, “We are deeply honoured by this recognition. Melksham Community Support exists to strengthen our community and help older people live with dignity, connection and support. This award from Community First shines a spotlight on what can be achieved when organisations, volunteers and local councils collaborate.”
Acting Chair of Melksham Without Parish Council, Cllr David Pafford, said, “The work done by Sarah Thomson and her colleagues in Age UK Wiltshire has been of enormous benefit to our community. Many residents have been able to connect to services and activities that had previously been impossible for them. Their participation enriches their lives and makes our community more inclusive. Melksham Without Parish Council is proud to be associated with this project and we congratulate all those involved.”
The Community First Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional contributions made by groups, organisations and volunteers across Wiltshire and Swindon.
The award was presented during the formal proceedings of the Annual General Meeting and Awards Celebration, attended by Community First staff, trustees, members, volunteers, award winners and guests.
For more information about the Melksham Community Support Service visit https://shorturl.at/51JO3.
If you or someone you know could benefit from support, or if you would like to volunteer, get in touch with Melksham Community Support on 01225 809265 or email melksham@ageukwiltshire.org.uk.
Pictured: Community First President and HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire Dame Sarah Troughton; Cllr David Pafford; Sarah Thomson; Cllr Ian Thorn (Wiltshire Council); Age UK Wiltshire Service Manager Ginny Cooper; Clerk of Melksham Without Parish Council Teresa Strange; and Melksham Mayor Saffi Rabey.
