A CHIPPING Sodbury-based homecare agency has awarded a grant in recognition of a lunch club’s work tackling isolation among the elderly.

Homecare provider Bluebird Care South Gloucestershire awarded the first ever Bluebird Care Community Grant to the weekly lunch club, ‘She 7’, in Filton.

The club received a cheque for £250 on Tuesday, February 3 in recognition for the work the group does to tackle isolation among the elderly.

Jack Whitfield, managing director, said: “As well as providing care and companionship services to people living in their own homes, Bluebird Care is passionate about supporting community projects and initiatives.

“So many neighbourhoods thrive because of volunteers who work tirelessly to run community groups, host events and provide services that benefit others.”

Bluebird Care South Gloucestershire was inspired by the dedication of 94-year-old Ruth Perkins, who has run the Filton club for more than 40 years, to award the grant.

Sophie Rowland-Jones, Bluebird Care manager director, said: “We hope our grant of £250 will help Ruth and support all the work she does. Thanks to her, She 7 has a positive and welcoming reputation in the Filton community.

“This was just the type of initiative we were hoping to fund this year – something that makes a difference to the lives of others, and ensures that older people have opportunities to socialise, leave their homes, and feel less isolated.”

The agency, with its headquarters on Broad Street in Chipping Sodbury, specialises in working with customers who suffer from dementia, physical and learning disabilities.