HAMPSHIRE councillors have granted over a quarter of a million pounds to organisations across the county to help its older residents.

The Older Persons Adult Services Community Support Grant was agreed to unanimously by Hampshire County Councillors in line with the Care Act 2014 which requires local authorities to promote wellbeing and prevent individuals’ deterioration.

Commissioning officer Lesley Shenton said: “The purpose of the grant is to help older people in Hampshire to lead independent lives and we’re looking to achieve this by supporting the voluntary sector and develop new initiatives.”

Councillors agreed to grants of £268,000 to be allocated to designated organisations over the next financial year.

The Winchester Live at Home Scheme has been granted £22,000 of Winchester’s £22,500 allocation.

Organisations in Basingstoke will have access to £27,500 and the highest amount of £42,000 was allocated to the New Forest.

Gosport has been allocated the lowest grant of £15,000.

“We have identified 16 organisations that meet our recommendations,” Ms Shenton added.

“The organisations that we have identified bring in substantial money which then in total would provide over half a million pounds to older people.”

Cllr Patricia Stallard said the move was “very very welcome”.

“This grant is absolutely essential,” she said.