Growth and Development
The Good Neighbour Scheme evolved in a variety of ways supported by local liaison officers working with the organiser in the city centre office. Nevertheless, the schemes all retained a community focus, with a strong relationship with the local churches. Each scheme had its own local identity according to the neighbourhood and its needs.
The range of assistance given covered every sort of practical and emotional support for people in their own homes, using the experience and skills of volunteers from the churches.
In 1971, SCCCC became Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care. During the next few years a number of initiatives were piloted, then in 1977 a 'going home' link was set up with the Royal Hospital. When the Royal Hallamshire Hospital opened the following year, a co-ordinator was appointed with funding from the City Council and Health Authority.
The co-ordinator's role was to find volunteers to help when a patient is discharged from hospital, particularly if they are still unwell, or frail and live alone. The AfterCare Scheme proved very successful and in 1987, the same service was set up linking SCCCC with patients and staff at the Northern General hospital.