Tackling Loneliness in North East Fife

1 minute ago
3 min read

Loneliness and isolation are challenges I hear about far too often from constituents across North East Fife. That’s why I was really encouraged to learn more about the work being done in Cupar through a social prescribing service led by Jane Aird as part of Community Connections Cupar.

Jane is the lead, and currently the sole, social prescriber for Cupar. Her role is to support people whose difficulties aren’t medical in nature, but who may be struggling with anxiety, isolation, or self-confidence and are therefore contacting their GP regularly for support. By helping people find non-medical solutions, Jane’s work frees up valuable GP time for those who need clinical care, whilst ensuring that no patient is turned away or without the help that they need.

Patients can self-refer to Jane or be referred by their GP, and appointments are available both in person and online. The service is open to people of all ages however; patients must be registered at Eden Villa Practice or Bank Street Medical Practice. Service users can phone or email to make an appointment and will be offered the next available slot, with follow-up sessions arranged if need be. While six sessions are usually offered, the level of support is flexible depending on an individual's needs and circumstances.

What makes this service so valuable is its focus on empowerment and connection. Jane supports people to get out and about, build confidence, and engage with their community. This might include helping someone attend a community event or activity that they are nervous about, supporting them with everyday tasks they find overwhelming, or linking them into local groups and local services. Jane can also advocate on behalf of patients with agencies and, where appropriate, work with the Council to improve relationships and build trust.

At present, this service has not yet been trialled elsewhere in Fife, but its success in Cupar shows the real value of investing in community-based, preventative and we recognise the importance of this vital service becoming available in more places across North East Fife.

Help for Loneliness in North East Fife

If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or isolated, there is support available locally and nationally:

Befriending Fife – offers one-to-one befriending and group activities across Fife
Age UK Silverline Hotline - a free, confidential telephone service that offers friendship, conversation and support to older people – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Age Scotland – provides friendship services, advice and local community connections
Cupar Community Centre and local libraries – host regular social groups and activities
Samaritans (116 123) – for emotional support, 24/7
NHS 24 (111) – for mental health support and advice
Fife Voluntary Action – can help signpost to local groups and services

Many people experience loneliness at different points in their lives. Services like social prescribing show how we can respond with compassion, community and practical help, rather than leaving people to struggle alone.

I will continue to support initiatives like this and will be sure to pre

ss for more community-based support across North East Fife and Leven, so that no one feels isolated or without someone to turn to.

If you would like help finding local support, my office is always happy to try to point you in the right direction.