A number of projects aimed at helping adults with disabilities, and elderly people, to live more independently have been awarded a share of a £162,000 fund.

The money, from Barnet Borough Council’s Supporting Independence Fund, was launched by the Adult Social Care and Health department in May.

It aims to give organisations with plans for imaginative initiatives a helping hand getting off the ground.

In total, the council received 22 bids and ten projects were selected to receive funding ranging from £500 to £20,000.

Successful bids include a scheme aimed at reducing social isolation through supporting people to set up their own dinner party clubs, to a project aiming to get the over-50s active through dance.

The project chosen to receive £20,000 is one which will work with local business to establish Safe Spots to allow people with learning disabilities to travel independently.

The Safe Spots will be recognized as somewhere for a person to go for help if they encounter difficulties.