MORE than £3,000 has been made available to tackle loneliness and isolation among older people.

Grants worth £3,113 have been awarded to two community groups from the Heart of Isle of Wight fund, set up by the Isle of Wight Community Foundation to support isolated Islanders.

The Community Spirited Cafe, based at East Cowes Pavilion, has received £2,100 to purchase craft materials and equipment.

The cafe's Jane Goddard said: “This grant will make a huge difference, and will allow us to run an outreach programme for those residents who are not confident enough yet to join our Knit and Natter Club.

"This will help us to bridge the gap for people who are lonely and isolated to help them feel like they have a worthwhile purpose in life."

Pan Together, in Newport, has received £1,013 to run a free art club at Downside Community Centre for residents aged 50-plus.

The money will be used to pay for room hire, provide refreshments and supply equipment and materials.

Rachel Thomson, community centre manager at Pan Together, said: “Thanks to this grant, the art club will give local people the chance to get together regularly in friendly, fun and spirit-lifting sessions."

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