Knutsford Good Neighbours phone number is 01565 631 262.
Knutsford Lions founded and continue to support the local Good Neighbours Scheme
This scheme provides voluntary help for those requiring non-medical support or assistance for those with a medical problem. The scheme now operates Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays) from 10am to 5pm. Patients requiring assistance ring the answering machine which gives the phone number of that day's coordinator who will organise assistance. Patients can also apply for assistance through the Knutsford GP practices.
The Knutsford Lions started the idea of a good neighbours scheme, to be operated in conjunction with local doctors, to recruit and train volunteers to provide non-medical assistance for patients. The concept was to have a daily coordinator available by phone to arrange assistance for those requiring support or assistance associated with a medical problem. The coordinator would be able to locate volunteers able to give help.
A pilot scheme was launched in April 1998. As a result of it's success the scheme was extended to the other Knutsford GP Practices later in the year. The scheme now runs independently of the Knutsford Lions, who maintain a watching brief.
Typical requests are for help with transport to GP Surgeries or to the Community Hospital for blood tests etc. Help can also be given with filling out forms, shopping on a short term basis or a home visit for a friendly chat. Transport for social outings or to visit patients in hospital is not provided. Patients are asked for a donation to defray costs and to cover insurance and administration. The scheme aims to supplement the services provided by the statutory services.
The scheme currently has over 80 volunteers who frequently report on how they have gained from helping people in their communities. Some volunteers have been attracted to the scheme as it does not require a forward commitment to specific days. The warmth of friendly help at a time when patients are stressed by their health worries is so much appreciated. Volunteers are reimbursed for car usage and telephone costs.
In 2003 the Knutsford and District Good Neighbours scheme won a Queen's Golden Jubilee Award for voluntary service by groups within the community