A NORTH Berwick-based project that aims to tackle loneliness and social isolation is looking to the future.

On April 1, North Berwick Coastal Community Connections was established as a separate organisation, after initially being set up as a pilot project of the town’s health and wellbeing association.

Launched in 2019, it helps those over the age of 18 with isolation and loneliness. It also gained charitable status last September and is looking forward to developing its range of services.

Project officer Carol Stobie has led the project since its establishment but is now being supported by recently appointed befriender coordinator Lisa Brownlie.

Alongside Carol and Lisa, the project is overseen by a board of trustees, two members of which are co-chairs Lisa McClure and Robert Burgon.

A large team of trained volunteers cover a wide range of skills and experience, work with the project’s members and encourage them to make connections with other individuals and organisations in the area.

The project is now working to secure funding for a three-year period, beginning in October.

Mr Burgon said: “North Berwick Coastal Community Connections recognises that the issues of social isolation are all too common and have been exacerbated during lockdown.

“It continues to explore ways in which it can provide lasting solutions to these issues.”

For support or to volunteer, email nbc-communityconnections@outlook.com