Thanks to a National Lottery grant, Health for All will be launching a new project to support Chinese and other isolated elders in Leeds to cope through the Covid-19 pandemic.
The new build Beeston Village Community centre will be the Hub from which staff and volunteers with appropriate language skills and knowledge deliver practical and emotional support. Those benefitting will be isolated, vulnerable older people unable to access other Covid-19 services due to language and cultural barriers.
Pat McGeever, HFA Chief Executive, said:
“Health for All has supported the Chinese community for many years now, with dedicated Cantonese and Mandarin speaking staff and volunteers running weekly luncheon clubs, singing and walking groups, organising cultural activities and events. The lockdown in response to the Covid-19 pandemic meant we had to temporarily close our groups and centres to comply with government advice.
“We have been providing some support and groups online but this grant means that will be significantly expanded. This project will make a huge difference to the Chinese community in Leeds, reducing. social isolation and improving physical and mental health. We’re so grateful to National Lottery players, without whom we would not be able to deliver this exciting project!”
Lychee Red Comes Home will respond to the urgent needs of vulnerable elders including home delivery of culturally appropriate food and activity packs/games, practical support with shopping and medication, signposting to address health, housing and utility issues. The project will also run online Activity sessions including Friendship groups, Chinese games and Singing Together.
For more information contact Toshal Bhatia on 07507 644215 or email: toshal.bhatia@healthforall.org.uk
