The West Wight’s former local area co-ordinator (LAC), Adam Tucker, is the new West Wight community connector.
Freshwater Parish Council, the Isle of Wight Council (IWC) and West Wight Sports and Community Centre (WWSCC) have worked together to create the new role, filling the gap left by the closure of the LAC service in March.
The job is funded jointly by the parish and county councils, while the WWSCC has been contracted as the employer. Current funding is for 1 year.
Gill Kennett, of Freshwater Parish Council and West Wight Sports and Community Centre, said:
“Over the last three years, Adam has done excellent work, supporting people of all ages, helping them deal with problems related to social isolation, benefits, debt and housing. He has made a huge difference to the lives of people in our community.
“Since the IWC closed the service, the West Wight community has shown huge support for a similar role and we are fortunate Adam has agreed to take on the community connector role. His experience as our LAC has enabled him to re-engage with the services he previously worked with and to continue supporting people in our community.”
Adam works closely with Mel Gardiner, West Wight Just Ask officer. As part of their roles, Adam and Mel attend many community groups, such as Our Place Community Café, where they are an integral part of the team. Our Place is from 10:00 to 12:30 on Tuesdays in the WWSCC community centre.
It is a friendly drop-in cafe, where everyone is welcome to enjoy free refreshments and seek advice if needed from agencies such as Citizens Advice.
Adam said:
“My role is to support the local community to become better connected. I work with people to help them find ways to improve their lives, which may include overcoming loneliness or low self-esteem.”
