BOLTON CVS has been working closely with the voluntary and community sector to support people’s mental health and reduce loneliness.

They have supported organisations such as Halliwell Befriending Service and Age UK Bolton to recruit new volunteers to meet increased demand.

Several organisations including Bolton Dementia Support have been participating in pilot projects to trial different technology to help people connect digitally.

Newly-formed mutual aid groups have benefitted from CVS support too, such as Lend a Hand - Horwich, to help keep people connected.

Bolton CVS themselves have been working as part of Bolton’s Humanitarian Response.

This has enabled them to keep track of the different issues arising from the pandemic, so that they can adapt their services.

Health, wellbeing and inclusion manager Lauren McKechnie said: “Bolton CVS will continue work with partners and support Bolton’s voluntary and community sector to provide the help and support individuals and families need to feel connected and well as we work through this unprecedented time.”