Bield had been running the service at its Thornhill Court Day Care development every Tuesday and Wednesday evening for over 18 months, but due to lack of funds the service was closed in February of this year.

However after securing £75,000 from the Scottish Government’s People and Communities Fund, Bield has decided to put the funding towards a range of projects - including allocating £18,500 to allow the Evening Support service to be revived.

Kevin Rowe, fundraiser for Bield, said the service offers an opportunity for older and frail people to get out and about in the evening in a safe and controlled manner, while giving their carers valuable respite time.

He said: “The relaunch occurred at the end of June and is a huge success for the staff and service users at Thornhill Court.

“A launch party is being planned to give those who attend the service and the staff a chance to celebrate its return.”

Bowling trips, visits to the theatre and physical activities are all part of the valuable service which is known to make a life changing impact for those who attend.

People who used the service previously have enjoyed trips to well known landmarks such as the Kelpies and Andy Murray’s golden post box in Dunblane.

Kevin said: “Even trips to the local chip shop play a huge part helping older people to get out & about and enjoy some fresh air while being given the opportunity to meet and make friends and now the service has reopened it provides them with the opportunity to do this again.”

Angie Shanks, resource manager at Thornhill Court, said: “The service enables older people to remain part of the local community by visiting local attractions and venues and meeting up with people of various generations in local pubs, restaurants, theatres and cinemas.

“For many, it’s a wonderful opportunity, not only because it allows carers a short respite as their loved ones attend the service, but those using the service have the opportunity to meet new people and for many, wonderful and strong friendships have developed. However, it is sometimes an opportunity for care users, carers & their families to enjoy some quality time together so it can provide a vital service to so many different people in many different ways.”

The Evening Support service typifies Bield’s ‘Free to Be’ philosophy, which lets people make their own choices about how they live their lives while being there to support them when they need it.

@BieldScotland