YEADON-based charity, AVSED, which works to prevent social isolation and loneliness for Aireborough seniors, is on the move to Rawdon.

The charity - formerly known as Aireborough Voluntary Services to the Elderly - and helps people by supporting happy, healthy, and independent living has seen a considerable increase in the number of seniors needing support over the last year and has run out of space.

Manager Debbie Fawthrop said: "Since Covid, we have seen a huge jump in our membership. More people are aware of our charity, and what we do, and see us as the place to go for matters relating to seniors in Aireborough. We offer support services that enable people to remain living at home independently for as long as possible – from welfare checks and needs assessments to befriending and handyman jobs, and we work alongside statutory services to offer wrap-around support. Our activity groups cover physical exercise, memory support and social friendship – supported by our minibuses offering door-to-door, accessible community transport.

"For the past few months, we have been battling with increasing waiting lists for our groups. It takes tremendous effort and strength for someone to reach out and ask for support – and when someone reaches out to AVSED we need to be responsive and act quickly to ensure the right support is given at the right time to make a difference to that person's life.

"Having someone open up regarding their emotions, home life and social circle, or tell us they are feeling lonely or isolated, is a huge step for them – we can’t then put a barrier up by saying we have a waiting list. So we needed to look for a solution."

The solution came in the form of Greenacre Hall. The community hall is on the main road through Rawdon and offers impressive facilities that are ample to support the growing charity’s needs.

AVSED chairman, Ken Elliott, worked closely with the trustees and newly-formed management committee to secure a long-term lease that offers security, potential and solutions for the charity.

Debbie added: "We are extremely grateful to Aireborough Nunroyd Sports Association for supporting AVSED over the years and wish the respective clubs all the best for their future." 

AVSED will begin its tenancy at Greenacre Hall with an AGM on October 30. If For more information an open consultation event is being held on August 16 at 2pm at Greenacre Hall, New Road Side.