Connecting people in Cornwall to their community.
Our software helps people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly make new connections, share stories and access information.
Starting life as a community directory on a Wordpress platform, the Cornwall Link was migrated to the Made Open platform in March 2020 due to the Coronavirus pandemic creating a more urgent need to create an online support system for people who were isolated in one way or another.
Public health recommendations at that time were to limit social interactions and stay at home. This resulted in anxiety for residents who relied on organisational and community assistance.
Many elderly people in particular struggled to navigate everyday tasks and responsibilities. An ever greater number of people, regardless of their age, felt vulnerable and reached out to Age UK Cornwall for support.
Since then, the Cornwall Link has shown what a supportive community looks like in a crisis. From the 'Bodmin Bikers delivery team' picking up essential shopping and groceries to local restaurants delivering warm meals to the door, local people, groups and businesses have used this platform to self-organise and provide a heart-warming display of kindness to vulnerable residents.
The overall idea behind the platform is to foster connectivity and reduce social isolation - connecting people and professionals with the services and social activities in their neighbourhoods.
As the online community grows to over 1,750 members, the Cornwall Link is fast becoming a two-way support system for people in communities to connect and collaborate with each other, and with professionals.
Research shows that social connections are key to experiencing a good later life. For many people this is about having an active social life; engaging with their community, pursuing hobbies and interests.
Our analytics are suggesting that 53% of all visitors to Cornwall Link are aged over 50 - proof that older people are online and looking for information.
Made Open really understand community building. They listen, understand and can deliver tech and design solutions that help communities connect and grow. The focus of The Cornwall Link is to create the most sustainable community resource platform we can as a tool for communities and those who support older, isolated and vulnerable people.
Tracey Roose, CEO, Age UK Cornwall
