New Belfast project aims to empower vulnerable adults

Northern Ireland Health Minister Jim Wells today launched a new community led initiative that aims to support vulnerable adults to live independently in caring and responsive communities.

The ‘Creative Local Action Response & Engagement (CLARE Project) in Belfast aims to address social isolation, improve health and well-being and promote independence by empowering individuals to shape and manage their care and support.

Laura Feeney, C.L.A.R.E Programme Manager explained: “The C.L.A.R.E model is a seamless approach, assisting people to connect to appropriate services and community resources that will improve their lives for the better. Our focus is on enabling people to maintain their independence and live socially connected lives within their homes and communities by utilising the skills and goodwill of local community champion volunteers.”

The Minister said: “This is a ground-breaking project, empowering individuals to shape and manage their care and support and at the same time drawing on skills from within local communities.”

“Support from families and friends are associated with better health and wellbeing, and the links that connect people within their communities can promote resilience against difficulties. This innovative project will help vulnerable adults and older people to live with dignity and independence in their own community, avoid social isolation, and have a feeling of control over their own lives.

“It is a timely initiative in response to current challenges faced by adult health and social care services and provides a unique opportunity for statutory services to work in partnership with the community sector to maximize skills and resources and achieve better outcomes for vulnerable adults and older people.”

The CLARE Project is part funded through the Public Health Agency (PHA) and is the first project in Northern Ireland to receive investment from The Big Society Capital.