Support Independence

Supporting Independence for Older People 

We believe that staying independent is key to living a happy, fulfilling life. As we age, maintaining choice and control over daily life becomes even more important, and we’re here to provide the support needed to make that possible.

If you would like to refer someone into our service please use the ‘Make a Referral’ tab at the top of the page.

Our Information and Advice Service helps older people access the resources and support they need to live confidently and independently. Whether it’s practical help with benefits and finance, energy provider support, Blue Badge or bus pass applications, or guidance on exercise opportunities, healthy living, and community support, we ensure that everyone has access to the right information and assistance.

To help older people stay active and engaged, we offer a range of social and wellbeing activities designed to combat loneliness and improve quality of life. From exercise classes and walking groups to craft sessions, social meet-ups, and day trips, there’s something for everyone.

Our volunteers and staff are also on hand to signpost and refer people for additional support with gardening, cleaning, home security and home adaptations, ensuring that living spaces remain safe and comfortable.

We also recognise the importance of emotional and social support. Our weekly drop-ins and outreach services provide opportunities to connect with others, while our befriending schemes help those who may feel isolated.

Supporting Independence – Enhance Programme Year 5

Bringing Healthcare Closer to Home: Our Community Health Hub

As we enter Year 5 of the Enhance Programme, our weekly Self-Management Community Health Hub continues to provide a welcoming space for older people to access healthcare, advice, and social support—all under one roof. Running alongside our popular Tuesday drop-in coffee morning, the Hub offers a relaxed, social environment where participants can manage long-term health conditions, improve quality of life, and maintain independence.

Launched in partnership with the Seacroft Neighbourhood Team (SNT), the Health Hub brings vital care closer to home, reducing the need for home visits while increasing opportunities for social interaction. Nurses provide a range of treatments previously delivered at home, along with expert self-management advice, while our dedicated Enhance team—Dee, Claire, and Leann—offer personalised guidance on welfare, social needs, and signposting to other services. Participants can also access support with benefits, home safety, and opportunities to join local activities, helping reduce social isolation and build meaningful connections.

Patient Experiences:

“One day last year my leg suddenly became very red and very swollen… When the Health Hub opened at the Newman Centre, I could get my leg seen to there. It was better for both me and the SNT nurses to have a convenient place with all the right facilities. My leg is completely better now.” – Health Hub Participant

“When CDGNS was first put to me by the nurse, the idea did not appeal to me. Nevertheless, I attended my first coffee morning some months ago. It’s one of the best things I have ever done. My initial misgivings were soon put behind me. Everyone I have met so far has been friendly and most helpful. I now feel at home every time I attend one of the many activities on offer. I would recommend anyone that feels lonely and alone to give Cross Gates Good Neighbours a try.” – Health Hub Participant

As we continue into Year 5, the Health Hub remains at the heart of our commitment to joined-up, person-centred care that supports independence, enhances wellbeing, and strengthens our local community.

Events & Community Engagement

We work closely with the Crossgates and York Road Local Care Partnership (LCP) and other community partners to plan and deliver events that promote health, wellbeing, and awareness on important topics such as mental health and dementia.

In the past we have hosted a variety of impactful community events across local venues, including Crossgates Shopping Centre. Topics have ranged from Domestic Violence Across All Ages to Breastfeeding Awareness, all designed to inform, support, and engage the local community. Our Dementia Awareness events have been particularly well received, featuring multiple community stalls and attracting large numbers of visitors.

We also support initiatives such as Light in the Darkness, a book by Brian Sugden giving a heartfelt insight into living with dementia. Copies are available from our office for a suggested donation in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK.

This year’s Winter Wellbeing Event was a major highlight, with 42 stalls and over 12,000 visitors attending at Crossgates Shopping Centre. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring health, support, and third sector organisations directly to local people, showcasing a wide range of services, advice, and activities.

Through all our events, we continue to raise awareness, provide support, and strengthen connections within the community—making a real difference to the lives of local people.

Community Anchor

Community Anchor Work – Supporting Our Community

As the Community Anchor for the Crossgates and Whinmoor ward, we work closely with ten local schools, a range of community organisations, including Swarcliffe Good Neighbours, and other local community groups to support families and members of the community. Through funding from the Household Support Fund (HSF) and other initiatives, we provide twice-weekly food bank sessions, emergency food hampers, and vouchers, helping households manage the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

We also deliver budgeting courses and practical cooking workshops, including slow cooker and air fryer courses, providing appliances to participants to make nutritious meals more affordable. In addition, we distribute funding for Welcome Spaces, supporting local spaces to offer safe, welcoming environments where members of the community can access advice, activities, and social connections.

Through these initiatives, we aim to reduce social isolation, strengthen community connections, and provide practical, meaningful support to local people, ensuring everyone has access to essential resources, guidance, and opportunities to thrive.

Get in touch

By offering these services, we support older people to maintain their independence, build connections, and continue leading fulfilling lives. Get in touch today to find out more about how we can support you or your loved ones. Our Information and Advice Service is available at the Newman Centre, open from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.