CRAVEN residents are being urged to sign up to a new project to keep them warm, well and in good company this winter.

Innovation in Craven, Warm and Well Together is the latest service from Carers’ Resource, which supports people in Craven who look after elderly or disabled relatives.

The organisation wants to support vulnerable people, combat isolation, and to help reduce the ‘health and wealth’ risks associated with winter weather.

The scheme invites residents who may be at risk of illness, fuel debt or social isolation to refer themselves for extra support.

People are asked to complete a brief checklist, either online or if written form, by taking the areas in which they are interested, or would like more information about.

The categories range from advice on reducing energy bills and using energy more efficiently, to requesting information on a range of services, including self-development, health needs and advocacy. They can also ask about activities activities for themselves, or someone they look after with dementia.

Sessions to introduce people to using the internet, reminiscence workshops and creative activities for people with memory loss and dementia are also on offer.

Once the form has been submitted, relevant organisations will contact residents direct about their relevant needs or requests for support.

Anna Jackson, head of development and innovation at the Carers’ Resource, said there were a host of services ready to support people in Craven.

She said: “Craven has a comparatively high percentage of winter deaths linked to health conditions which can be exacerbated by cold temperatures, inability to heat their homes due to costs, and poor standards of home maintenance.

“The checklist forms are extremely easy to fill in and just a few minutes spent on completing one could make such a difference to someone’s life over the coming months.”

Visit first4contact.org/f4c-craven-innovation-fund or e-mail first4contact@carersresource.org for details of the online form.

Contact project officer Elaine Owen on 01756 700888 to be sent a hardcopy.