New scheme will see companions visit elderly in Wolverhampton to combat isolation

A grassroots initiative is launching in Wolverhampton aiming to combat isolation among older adults.

The initiative has been created by a public health expert with a three month pilot program launching on November 16.

The new plan moves away from traditional ‘15-minute rushed visits’ and reinforces a new focus on deep, unhurried relationships to ensure wellbeing benefits.

The new plan will involve a ‘companion’ visiting elderly members of the community in their homes and providing friendship and help.

The companion will provide safety check-ins, prescription collection, light errands, and escorted community outings such as trips to local Wolverhampton cafés.

Salvation Care Services, founded by University of Warwick Master of Public Health (MPH) graduate Ester Agbolor, is enrolling the pilot to 10 local families.

The service will also introduce a transparent monthly membership model. With tiers starting at just £5 per month.

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Ester Agbolor said: "While supervising community care on the frontline, I realised that the most powerful form of health support is often the simplest genuine companionship.

"You can't always be there for your aging parents due to work and family demands, and that balancing act is incredibly overwhelming.

“We want to give local families absolute peace of mind by providing their loved ones with a genuine, reliable friend."

All companions are fully insured, enhanced DBS checked, and intensively trained in safeguarding protocols.

Local families across Wolverhampton who want to secure a spot in the 10 family pilot or book a free consultation are urged to apply immediately via https://salvationcare.carrd.co