A lifeline South Hams charity is starting a monthly group for carers and the people they look after.

South Brent and District Caring is working with Devon Carers to form the group, which would feature monthly activities and information sessions as well as guest speakers. The first meeting will be on Tuesday, November 14, from 2pm to 3pm in The Old School Community Centre, Totnes Road, South Brent.

SBADC’s new coordinator Jane Sullivan said she would love people to come along, to share their ideas and suggestions on how a carers group would work for them.

The charity, which plays a crucial role in helping people in need of support live independently, is now more than five years old. As well as South Brent itself, SBADC provides its vital service in Diptford, Rattery, Avonwick and North Huish.

Residents can call on the charity for help with a whole range of things not provided by statutory agencies. SBADC volunteers act as befrienders, and can help with DIY, light gardening, filling in forms and applications, shopping and prescription collection.

The charity also helps with carer respite and transport, and works with health and social care agencies, making a positive and long lasting difference to individual lives at a time when people may feel there is no one there to listen.

SBADC is always on the lookout for new volunteers, and is especially short of transport volunteers and male befrienders at the moment.

The charity also holds a Monday lunch club on alternate weeks from 12 until 1.30 in the Old School Centre. On offer is a 2 course meal and a raffle, with the next one on Monday, October 30.

SBADC is also looking ahead to a jazz night fundraiser at the end of the month. On Saturday, October 28 John Shillito and his band will be playing a charity concert in South Brent Village Hall from 7.30pm. There will be a bar and a raffle. Tickets are available from the SBADC office in the Old School Community Centre, or from Artworks shop in the village.

For further details on any of these events, to volunteer or if you need advice please ring SBADC on 01364 700282 – they would love to hear from you.