A Clydebank care home has revealed how it is tackling loneliness and isolation amongst its residents with a ‘brilliant’ new program.

Hillview Care Home in Dalmuir recently teamed up with the Adopt a Grandparent (AAG) scheme that aims to reduce feelings of loneliness by pairing volunteers with elderly people.

It is the first care facility in Scotland to have joined the program. 

On Wednesday, Betty Milligan, a resident at the Singer Road home, became the first to take part in the program, enjoying a video call with volunteer Kathryn.

The 77-year-old’s son Andrew told the Post that he hopes the program gives his mum’s spirits a boost.

The 53-year-old said: “About a month ago one of the care home assistants phoned me and asked me if it’d be okay if they entered Mum into this project.

“I was a bit sceptical at first but I do trust the staff as they’re brilliant so I agreed. I saw the post on Facebook last night and I was well chuffed.

“I’m hoping they [Betty and Kathryn] can maybe meet up in the future, I think that would be really nice for mum.

“The staff explained that at first, it’ll be a video call then they’ll see how that goes, then possibly a visit.

“The biggest thing for my mum in the home is loneliness so with this program she’s now got someone to talk to, I think it’s brilliant, I really do.”

When applying to AAG volunteers are asked to provide details of their hobbies, interests, and reasons for signing up before being matched with a person who shares similar likes.

Betty was matched with Kathryn as the pair enjoy the same favourite foods and hobbies, and share a love of France.

Andrew said that the scheme, which partners with safeguarding organisation SaySo, brings him comfort as it is nice to know someone will regularly be there for his mum.

The 53-year-old explained that he was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and a form of lung disease which has made it difficult for him to make trips to Scotland.

He added: “I’ve been in Leeds now for about 20-odd years. I moved down here when I joined the army and I’ve been here ever since.

“My work means that it’s really hard to get up and I’ve also been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, and a form of lung disease.

“Making the journey can be quite painful for me. I’m hoping this gives mum a wee boost so she’s got something to regularly look forward to.

“It’s a comfort to know that someone’s there for her and I’m sure there will be hundreds of elderly people in the same scenario who could benefit from AAG.”