Seven community volunteers who support vulnerable people in Minehead have become trained first aiders thanks to funding from Magna Housing.
The housing association used its community improvement fund to pay for one project worker and six volunteers from the Hope Centre Trust to update their first aid training.
The Hope Centre supports people in Minehead who are homeless, have problems with drugs and alcohol, or are vulnerable in any way. It runs drop-in sessions at Minehead Baptist Church Hall twice a week, where volunteers help people get their lives back on track.
They support them by making doctors’ appointments, speaking to housing officers on their behalf, and going to appointments with them. They also help them get clothing, furniture and other household items.
Ian McLaren from the Hope Centre said: “At least 80 different people have visited us for support in the past year. Many tell us Magna is their landlord and need help relating to their housing. Some have anxiety and anger issues, which can affect their ability to manage their lives. Coming to the Hope Centre helps them think through their problems and feel more able to have good relationships with others.
“Magna’s support means more of our staff and volunteers are able to give potentially lifesaving first aid if needed.”
Neil Bliss, Customer and Community Involvement Officer for Magna, added: “Magna welcomes bids from community organisations like the Hope Centre to help them support local people, especially where they are also our customers.”
For more information about the Hope Centre, Minehead, visit www.thehopecentreminehead.org.uk
Find out more about Magna’s support for local communities at www.magna.org.uk/community
