The achievements of community groups within Sefton have come under the spotlight with the launch of a new report.

The Working Together For A Healthier Community report showcases the work of organisations and groups in the voluntary, community and faith sector after receiving grants from the CCG VCF Fund.

Over more than three years, the two NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG) in Sefton invested £2.5million into projects designed to improve the health and wellbeing of local communities.

Fiona Taylor, Chief Officer at NHS South Sefton CCG and NHS Southport and Formby CCG, says: “The main aim of the grants was to improve people’s sense of inclusion and involvement which, in turn, helps their health, wellbeing and independence.

“The grants, managed by Sefton CVS, have clearly highlighted the potential ‘reach’ of the funding – far beyond the direct beneficiaries – but deep into people’s families and communities.”

There were 52 different projects delivered throughout Sefton ranging from those looking to tackle childhood obesity, reduce social isolation for older people or help people improve their mental wellbeing.

More than 10,500 people engaged with the projects that delivered around 54,000 meals and more than 590 volunteers gave their time in supporting the projects.

Nigel Bellamy, Deputy Chief Executive of Sefton Council for Voluntary Service (CVS), explains: “As a result of this vital investment we can say that more children are now confident to face the challenges of growing up, more adults are positively equipped with skills to deal with managing their wellbeing and more older people can lead an independent life where they don’t have to feel alone.”

Visit our publications section to download the report. For more information about Sefton CVS and their work please visit www.seftoncvs.org.uk.