Two local organisations were presented with 'Outstanding With Loneliness' (OWL) awards at a town council meeting this week for their efforts to reduce loneliness in the area.

The awards come as part of the town council's project of the same name, which provides certificates, badges, and plaques to individuals and groups supporting the lonely.

Representatives from Assist Teignbridge Volunteer Centre and Dawlish Community Transport accepted the awards on Wednesday (9 November).

Assist Teignbridge Volunteer Centre Volunteer Co-ordinator Chrisi Marshall said: "Assist recruit, train and support volunteers to provide befriending services to older, lonely individuals, who may be isolated and housebound.

"We also provide enabling services to help individuals who may lack confidence and be lonely, by supporting them to integrate into the local community, sourcing activities they may enjoy.

"We also train volunteers to look at the signs and triggers that might indicate that someone's lonely and isolated. This is not a new idea and with an aging population, especially with people retiring and migrating into the area and losing their support networks, we will no doubt see an increase in demand."

L to R: Cllr Carole Tamlyn; Sallyanne Bartley, Sally Preston, Pauline Haydon of Dawlish Community Transport; Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Lisa Mayne (Nub News/ Will Goddard)

Dawlish Community Transport Manager Sally Preston said: "Community Transport offers far more than affordable/accessible transport: through the provision of transport, particularly the minibuses, it offers invaluable opportunities to get out and about in the community, meet people, build friendships and social inclusion, improving overall wellbeing whilst also assisting with medical journeys that individuals may choose not to attend otherwise.

"Going the extra mile by just being there for someone can change everything.

"Word of mouth is invaluable, speaking to people in person, attending activities and events, sharing what we do and how enjoyable and beneficial it is.

"We are trialling a Bingo Bus – a new initiative to engage the community, focusing on social interaction with a fun activity for all – an event some may not otherwise attend."

How to join the OWL project

Individuals, voluntary organisations, businesses, charities, and schools are all eligible to join the OWL project. You can also nominate someone or an organisation for their work.

Click here to download an application form, which you can submit it to [email protected]. Print forms can be requested by calling 01626 863388 and returned to the Manor House, Old Town Street, Dawlish, EX7 9AP. Email [email protected] for more information.