Homes for Haringey tackling social isolation

Homes for Haringey is carrying out a Winter Readiness programme that targets vulnerable residents mainly those in supported living accommodation. Priority is given to tenants over the age of 81 and living alone.

This is part of a series of activities and events that seek to tackle social isolation faced by our residents.

A team of 50 volunteers will go around the community to identify old, vulnerable or frail residents who live alone on our estates and street properties. The volunteers will then assess the individuals based on their needs.

The Winter Readiness volunteer programme supports vulnerable adults to ensure that their homes are warm, in good order, lights are working and that our residents are coping well.

 The volunteers will also check that the vulnerable residents with repairs outstanding have their homes are fixed in good time.

 The programme, now its second year was launched in 2018 with over 250 residents visited and offered appropriate help in the first year.

Vulnerable residents with safeguarding concerns will also be referred for appropriate support.

Volunteers will also assess the general wellbeing of the individuals to make sure they can cope during the cold months and ensure that residents know how to call for assistance if they need to.

Homes for Haringey also runs another popular programme; Broadway Brunches which are run in conjunction with the Creative Learning team from Jacksons Lane theatre. A new calendar of events will shortly be announced for 2020.

The fortnightly events take place in different supported housing schemes across the borough and give residents the chance to meet and socialise, whilst being wowed by a range of cabaret acts.

Over the last year, a series of events were held.  They include burlesque, belly dancing, circus, Celtic folk, African drumming, comedy, spoken word, choirs, jazz and blues, musical theatre and a wide range of dancing!

Homes for Haringey also works with Haynes Dementia Hub and Spare Tyre to tackle help dementia and reduce isolation.

Spare Tyre, works along with Jacksons Lane and Homes for Haringey to engage people living with dementia into activities as a way to reduce social isolation.