March 2009 At the RAZ Partnership Meeting held at the Post 16 Centre in Spalding on Thursday 26th, Jayne Thomas, our local co-ordinator, made a presentation on the success of the "First Contact "scheme which is gradually being rolled out across the district. This initiative was brought into South Holland through the RAZ and in partnership with Jo Craik of Housing and representatives from Age Concern, the Pension Service, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, Lincolnshire County Council, South Holland Citizens Advice Bureau, South Lincs CVS, Spalding Silver Link and Holbeach Seniors Forum the scheme has developed. "First Contact" is about providing support to the over 60’s in their own homes through identifying issues where they may need help. For example, if a partner in the scheme has occasion to visit an older person in their home and notices that they do not have a smoke alarm, with the individual’s permission this can be referred to the Fire Service for action. At the same time they may learn that the person needs help with benefits and this can be referred too for action. The scheme is administered from Lincoln and costs us nothing, just a little amount of time. Another example of productive partnership working.
At the same meeting it was reported that the Partnership of Boston Borough Council, Lincolnshire County Council and South Holland District Council to bid for up to £2 million from the Rural Development Programme for England had been successful. The RAZ supported this initiative, made use of its extensive partnership network to develop the Wash Fens Local Action Group who will be responsible for ensuring the programme is delivered and provided much background material, essential to the success of the bid. The major themes to be addressed with the funding are: to promote a prosperous economy; a greener, sustainable environment and a great destination with an enviable quality of life. Projects might include the diversification of some farming businesses, developing the tourism potential of the area and supporting small businesses. Another success story in South Holland.
Diane Clay, the Manager of Spalding’s CAB and a RAZ Partner spoke at the meeting of the increased workload she and her team face during the economic downturn. Her presentation enlightened all present and was well received.
Following the meeting I was approached by a senior officer from one of the East Midlands’ governmental organisations and asked if the RAZ would be interested in being involved with a project entitled "Engaging New Communities in Enterprise". The overall aim of the project is to enable new communities and the migrant worker population to establish social or commercial enterprises and to assist with integration with host communities. This project has been successful in urban communities but now they would like a rural community to be involved. I have said we would be delighted to be involved and wait for more details. We will keep you informed!
Graham Scorthorne
Strategic Partnerships Manager