Many challenges are impacting on quality of life with people in rural areas being affected at a higher rate than those in the cities.

Worries about heating and energy, the rising cost of food, uncertainties in the financial markets, and difficulty accessing Council and GP services when you need them, it seems never ending. For many people having someone to talk to can be a lifeline and for the last fifteen months, Michael Auton has been there for help and support. Based in Midsomer Norton and covering the local town plus Westfield and Radstock, his job as a Village Agent for the West of England Rural Network has been very busy. Michael says: “Since I started my role, I have supported nearly 50 people who are struggling to cope on their own, plus another 50 people benefitting from the activities we deliver.

“Advice services are often only available online or via telephone and waiting times to talk to advisors can be weeks or even months. My role has proved vital, providing a listening ear, and helping families to understand the complicated maze of services, advice, and information available. Village Agents are an important piece of the tapestry of support services in the Somer Valley and will continue to be there when families need us.”

The role of Village Agent is to understand the needs of clients and signpost them to appropriate support services or activities. Michael has dealt with a broad range of issues including debt concerns, social isolation and loneliness, housing, benefit advice and support for carers, to more practical advice about meeting times and locations for lunch clubs, coffee mornings and social activities such as Knit and Knatter, Church or pensioners groups.

Michael said: “Village Agents represent the link between families in need and the vital services on hand to support them. I feel very privileged to play my part in this process. We are keen to work with charities and local groups to identify what is available locally so please call or email to let me know what your club or group is doing.”

WERN is expanding the Village Agent team and is looking to appoint a new agent for Radstock and Westfield.

Anyone over 18-years-old can be supported by a Village Agent and you can self-refer if you are struggling and need additional support. Contact Michael via email: [email protected] or: 01225 333700. Visit the WERN website: https://www.wern.org.uk/village-agents