THE NEW manager of a charity supporting older people in Tavistock says a major priority is increased funding for community transport.

More funding is also sought for the Pannier Market RAW café and to continue to run the befriending, Life Stories and outreach support. The charity’s remit includes a range of activities and health support groups and lunch-clubs, at Horrabridge and at Milton Abbott.

Holly Stirling has taken over as manager of Tavistock Area Support Services and is also planning on introducing cashless payments at the charity’s shop in the town very soon.

Another key move is to improve partnerships with other statutory organisations and potential donors.

Increasing income from grants and donations for the long term is important for future provision of services.

Holly moved from West London after a career in the NHS as a general and mental health nurse and in managing charities and services like TASS.

She said: ‘I love it in Tavistock. It is a totally different slower pace of life here compared with London.  The community is very strong here and that helps TASS support older people to stay independent in their own homes and help them lead the best life they can lead - feeling fulfilled and part of the community.

‘I’ve only been here at TASS a short time and I’ve already had so much feedback from our users which shows what a huge difference we are making as a team to people’s lives.  Our transport is literally a lifeline to get people to health appointments and Bernice and Ali who run our transport services are brilliant. The other staff here, Jacky, Cathy, Brian, and Debbie are all fabulous.’

Holly said she was motivated by helping build community support, but also enabling people to help themselves: ‘I have deliberately chosen to live in the centre of town, so I can be part of the community and staying connected with identifying what people need.

‘It’s been like living my dream leaving the city and coming to live where I came on holiday.  I do like meeting people and believe that we are here to support people to feel happier with their quality-of-life, despite their immobility which can in turn, cause isolation and loneliness.’

My family background is in the caring profession with relatives in social work, nursing and teaching. I am an organised and practical person, so I want our services to be delivered more efficiently. In this way we can reach more people and be able to show our partners and grant providers we are providing targeted help with outcomes.’

Holly added: ‘I have a fantastic team of staff and volunteers and there are five trustees who support us.

‘Our team is only small, but they are so flexible and go above and beyond the call of duty. However, we do need more funding and donations to continue to develop the services.’