A SOUTHAMPTON charity are seeking volunteers to help assist people leaving hospital.

Communicare, a charity who aim to eradicate loneliness have officially launched their NHS-backed homecoming project.

The project aims to support vulnerable people leaving hospital for up to four weeks after they have been discharged who would benefit from low level, good neighbourly support in the early stages of returning home.

The project has firstly been launched in Banister.

Annie Clewlow, Communicare Manager said: “We’re very excited about focusing on rolling out our pilot Homecoming Project in Banister this month.

"We are concentrating on specific geographical areas across Southampton, one at a time, although the service is already on offer in a limited way across the whole city.

“ We’re keen to hear from anyone who needs our help but are also hoping to chat to those who might just have a few spare minutes to become one of our kind, friendly, volunteers who help those in need in their own community.

" They might even be able to assist the person next door or an individual just down their street."

Communicare havee been able to put their hospital homecoming pilot into action after obtaining funding through the NHS clinical commissioning groups.

Annie said: “We know people worry about giving up their time and may feel this is a huge commitment.

"We appreciate everyone is busy, but we find even the busiest person has a few minutes each day to make a phone call or to drop in and see a neighbour when they are passing.

" It can also be very rewarding helping someone else out.”

Carole Dobson, a Communicare volunteer has been in hospital previously for hip and knee operations.

She said: “I know what it is like to need a helping hand when you come out of hospital.

"It’s so important to see a friendly face for a chat and a cuppa, and just to know someone cares.

" It’s wonderful to have that support when you really need it.”