In her latest column, Ashton-under-Lyne MP Angela Rayner writes about a community project which has received a funding boost.

This week, I would like to share some brilliant news about a fantastic community project within my constituency.

Age UK’s Get Up and Go has been awarded £123,658 from The National Lottery Community Fund to continue and enhance the excellent work they do to help and support residents aged 50 and over.

GUGO offers mental health support in non clinical settings such as community centres or in people’s own homes.

It is targeted at people who may be going through a difficult time, such as the loss of a loved one, who need help to get their life back on track.

The service has three different pathways so that support can be tailored to be the most effective.

The Get Going Pathway - for those who are struggling with knowing exactly where to start and may feel like they don’t have the energy required to start making changes.

They may be low in mood and feel anxious. This stage focuses on calming fears and building resilience for the next step. The Get Busy Pathway is for those who feel lonely following what may have been a very busy and full life.

Being alone – because of bereavement, divorce or children flying the nest - can cause sadness, stress and isolation so this stage encourages people to join a club or take up a new hobby to get them back into socialising.

The Get There Pathway is specifically for those who have suffered a bereavement and need advice on how to target milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries and Christmas which may trigger feelings of severe loss and upset.

It’s absolutely wonderful that The National Lottery has given Age UK this funding as the work they do across my constituency really is a lifeline for so many.

If you would like to know more about GUGO and the services on offer, you can visit www.ageuk.org.uk/tameside/our-services/get-up-and-go or call 0161 308 5000.

People can self refer and Age UK also take referrals from GPs, health and social care services and other agencies.

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