After a traumatic experience as islanders were being evicted from the Pacific Island by the USA, 66-year-old Roland found himself in need of support. Though he had British Citizenship, as a French Native speaker with limited English language skills, Roland found his new environment in the UK to be very isolating, and struggled to find work.
Roland was referred to Oldham Social Prescribing as he suffered with depression, isolation, unemployment. He struggled with getting out of his home, but wanted to feel connected to his community.
Debra, Oldham Social Prescribing Officer, was put into contact with Roland and was able to support with his isolation issues by getting him out to socialise, and also introducing him to two community centers where he could spend time volunteering.
As a result of his unemployment and various other issues, Roland also needed help financially. Debra was able to use her resources to lift the financial burdens that were cause for worry, through helping with repairs to his flat, support with rent, council tax, DWP, and also applying for Pension Credit.
Roland is now much more integrated in his community, as he volunteers at Werneth and Freehold Community Centre; spending his time cooking, cleaning and gardening. He also volunteers at the Primrose Centre where he does DIY, gardening, setting up furniture, and is also now able to give back to others needing support by serving meals to those in need.
Roland now feels he is a well-liked and integral and valuable member of his community. He has had an amazing transition through the support he found thanks to Debra and the love she puts into her job as a Social Prescriber.
Oldham Social Prescribing
The Oldham Social Prescribing service empowered Roland to embrace the opportunities offered to him and is now able to help others in less fortunate positions too.
To find out more about our Oldham Social Prescribing service, please click here