A NEW scheme which aims to reduce loneliness and isolation has launched this week.

The Two’s Company Keswick befriending scheme aims to bring people together to support those who are socially isolated through a weekly visit or phone call.

It covers the whole CA12 postcode.

The scheme has been set up as a partnership between Churches Together in Keswick and Keswick Rotary Club with the support of Age UK West Cumbria.

James Newcome, Bishop of Carlisle, is the patron of Linking Lives UK, the umbrella organisation of Two’s Company Keswick.

He said: “We know that loneliness is both widespread and debilitating in today’s society, so I am really delighted that Two’s Company has been established in Keswick and the surrounding area.

“It will undoubtedly make a big difference to many people’s lives.”

Referrals are welcomed from local organisations, family and friends.

Some have already been received.

Fully vetted and trained volunteers are then linked up with someone matching their interests and personality.

The initial group of volunteer befrienders have now been trained.

The first match already has been made between a befriender and a service user.

Fiona Overend, the scheme co-ordinator said: “We hope this is the first of many such links, and as the scheme takes off.

“We would love to hear from more potential volunteers as we seek to help alleviate loneliness and isolation in our area.

“During the pandemic a few groups around Keswick highlighted the need to address social isolation and loneliness.

“We found who were living on their own and were made more isolated during the pandemic either through health reasons or just being elderly and not being able to see family and friends.

“And it’s not just elderly people either.

“There’s younger people who were experiencing the same thing.

“I’m also involved in a toddler group and young mums are saying exactly the same thing.

“They’re saying that it’s amazing to be getting back together but that they’ve gone through times of loneliness as well.”

If you would like more information about Two’s Company Keswick, you can contact Keith Rigg, the leader of the scheme, on 07976515211.