A Shifnal and Albrighton group that helps elderly people continue to live happily at home by tackling isolation and loneliness has received a donation from a regional housebuilder as it faces increased costs due to the COVID-19 crisis.

MHA Shifnal, Albrighton & District Live at Home Scheme received £1,000 from Persimmon Homes West Midlands thanks to its Community Champions scheme, which has run since 2015.

The Persimmon Homes Community Champions initiative seeks to support grassroots groups and charities in areas where the company is building.

Persimmon Homes West Midlands makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month to worthy causes.

MHA Shifnal, Albrighton & District Live at Home Scheme primarily runs social groups to reduce isolation and loneliness in older people in the local community, with the help of dedicated local volunteers.

Spokesperson Lee Shergold said: “Our aim is to eliminate isolation and loneliness among older people by connecting them in communities that care, allowing them to live later life well.

“During the pandemic, we have quickly had to adjust as face-to-face activities and social groups all had to stop. These adaptations have included beginning virtual sessions, where our members can interact with staff, volunteers, and other members safely from home.

“Other adaptations have included providing shopping, welfare calls and medication pick-ups and we are constantly adjusting our services to maintain the high level of support our members require.

“This has led to an increase in costs to cover remote working, training volunteers and volunteer expenses to name but a few. However, our income has drastically decreased as members are not attending clubs and there is no member income.

“Therefore, support such as this from Persimmon Homes West Midlands is vital as it helps us meet the needs of the community during these unprecedented times. It is much appreciated.”

David Greengrass, head of sales for Persimmon Homes West Midlands, said: “We are delighted to be able to support the work of MHA Shifnal, Albrighton & District Live At Home Scheme which clearly provides invaluable support to older people during a very difficult time.”

To find out more information Community Champions visit: https://www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions.