Shrewsbury charity to close after more than two decades

The charity in Castlefields, Shrewsbury, began in 2002

A charity has made the "difficult decision" to close at the end of March.

North Shrewsbury Friendly Neighbours (NSFN) said it had provided support and friendship to thousands of vulnerable people since it began in 2002.

But it was "impossible to continue", it said, as council funding had "dwindled" and key team members were looking to retire.

Shropshire Council said it had been in regular contact with the charity to support its continuation.

NSFN assists service users with daily tasks such as shopping and applying for benefits, as well as providing transport and company for them.

"For some of our clients, the visit from their Friendly Neighbour was the highlight of their day," said manager Julie Thomas, who described the charity as small but very busy.

"It's sad to think that we can't carry on providing that support."

Financial backing had diminished, the charity said, and applying for external funding was competitive.

"We are really disappointed to have to close down, but we just don't have the funding to carry on," Ms Thomas said.

Volunteers at the charity had been involved in the decision to close, and clients had also been informed, the charity reported.

It added it was ensuring everyone would be offered ongoing support from other organisations so no-one would be left on their own.

A council spokesperson said: "We understand from discussions with NSFN that due to those involved retiring it is now not possible for the organisation to continue.

"We will always endeavour to help support voluntary and community organisations as they play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of people in Shropshire."