Issue - meetings

The group gave consideration to a report and verbal presentation by Gill Chasemore, who outlined the principle aim of the support group and highlighted the difficulties faced by the group in trying to reach out to more people, particularly those who struggle to get to Bowmore due to issues such as poor health, remoteness and poor transport.  She also outlined a number of other projects and activities offered by the group, which afford people an opportunity to lead as healthy a life as possible.   

Discussion took place in respect of fuel poverty, the difficulties for some in navigating the benefits system particularly in relation to Personal Independence Payments and the costs of living on an island.  Partners in attendance offered to assist Ms Chasemore with some of the issues raised and the Chair agreed to provide information to Ms Whyte of Islay Community Council directly in relation to outreach workers from the Department of Work and Pensions.

The Chair thanked Ms Chasemore for the information provided.

Decision:

The Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands Area Community Planning Group agreed to note the information provided. 

(Ref:  Report by Chit Chat Development Officer, Islay and Jura Community Enterprises Ltd, dated 1 May 2019, submitted.)