ELDERLY York people who suffer from the problem of social isolation are to benefit from thousands of pounds being ploughed into an innovative community scheme.

Residents of Acomb's Westfield ward made tackling social exclusion of the elderly a top priority this year in a survey of their views.

This month, in the first project of its kind in York, £5,000 is being spent on increasing day club places at two community centres in the area. An additional community support worker has been recruited to work with lonely, older people to promote independence and self-confidence.

Both measures are being implemented in conjunction with the charity Age Concern, supported by council funds.

If it proves a success, the scheme could be rolled out across the city, given support from councillors and residents.

Councillor Sue Galloway, who initiated the scheme with fellow ward councillor Andrew Waller, said the scheme had been identified as a priority.

She said: "There is a high proportion of older residents in the ward who can benefit from this.

"It's particular to Westfield, with a narrow focus, but by doing it this way we can gauge how successful it has been with a view to possibly expanding it in the future."

A total of 20 new places will be made available at Age Concern's Gale Farm Court and Lincoln Court day clubs.

Meanwhile, the community support worker will target older, isolated members of society and encourage them to participate in activities outside the home.

Age Concern chief officer Sally Hutchinson said the community befriending service helps house bound older people and those, who because of health reasons, do not visit day clubs.

She added: "However the number of older people in this position, combined with the difficult circumstances of many individuals, cannot be adequately supported by our present service.

"We are delighted that the ward is backing this project and look forward to working in partnership with them in the future for the benefit of the community."

Updated: 08:21 Tuesday, August 20, 2002