AN Essex wide volunteering initiative, FaNs (Friends and Neighbours) has been nationally profiled as an example of best practice within the care sector. With funding from Essex County Council, the FaNs movement has been developed and led by the My Home Life Essex Community Association.

The aim of FaNs is to encourage organisations, businesses, groups and individuals across the county to be good friends and neighbours to their local care homes and the people who live in them.

Care England, working with ITN Productions produced an online news-style programme entitled “Caring Communities” exploring the complex role of care and the remarkable initiatives happening in the sector as demand grows.

The FaNs movement was profiled as one of the pieces in the film introduced by Angela Rippon, which was premiered at the Care England national conference last week. The film will be available on their website for a year and can be viewed on the Essex County Council YouTube site here https://youtu.be/nr-Hnpfp2Hs

Cllr Anne Brown, Cabinet Member for Communities and Healthy Living, featured in the video said; “By funding this project we are bringing people from the community into care homes where they talk to their neighbours, reducing isolation among residents.”

“It also helps staff in all areas of the care homes to feel their important work is valued by members of the local community.”

Jan Lockyer, Programme Manager with the My Home Life Essex Community Association is encouraging people to become part of FaNs; “Anyone, old or young, who shares the values of FaNs can be part of the movement. No specific commitment is required.”

“Just like any other friends and neighbours, the “FaNs” take an active interest in the well-being of the people who live in their local care homes. They contribute when, how and in whatever way suits them, and their neighbours in the care home, best. It’s an enriching experience for everyone involved.”