Community Link service - supporting local needs

03 August, 2017

A new service to help support local people with their health and wellbeing needs has been launched in the East Riding. The Community Link service, run by East Riding Voluntary Action Service (ERVAS), helps people access the right services at the right time.

There is often a range of issues that can affect someone’s health and wellbeing, not just medical problems. They may have had a bereavement, a relationship breakdown or money problems or more often than not several issues together, all of which can have a huge impact on wellbeing.

Community Link Workers spend some time talking to you to understand issues that might be affecting your health and wellbeing, share information with you about local services and activities that might be of interest and provide practical support to put you in touch and help you access the right services and groups.

‘Sam’ was referred to the community link service because he struggled to be around people, suffered from osteoarthritis and wasn’t looking after himself properly. The community link worker was able to help him access a meal each day to ensure he was eating properly and prompt him to sort out financial issues through Citizen’s Advice and The Hinge, a charity that offers support for independent living. The worker also helped with a referral to social care and a mental health team.

Sian Broughton, ERVAS chief executive, said, “We’re excited to be delivering this service. Sometimes all it takes is for someone to listen to you and let you know what help is out there. This might be as simple as getting involved in a social activity or putting you in touch with professionals or support groups. Our community link workers have a wealth of local knowledge and can find a solution that works for you.”

If you’re 18 or over, any member of the practice team* or health professional that you are working with can arrange an appointment with our Community Link Worker.

*East Riding CCG GP practices only. For further information and to check if your GP is eligible, ask at your practice.

Community Links is funded by:

NHS East Riding of Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group as part of the Community Services contract awarded to City Health Care Partnership CIC (CHCP CIC).

Community Links is jointly delivered on behalf of CHCP CIC by:

East Riding Voluntary Action Service (ERVAS)

Humber and Wolds Rural Community Council (HWRCC)

SHoRes at Withernsea

For more information please, call Community Link on 0303 040 1019** or email community.link@nhs.net

**Local rate number