AN inspirational nurse has taken on a new role to help the area in its recovery from the pandemic.

Alison Bunce, the founder of Compassionate Inverclyde, is to join volunteer umbrella group CVS Inverclyde (CVSI) on a secondment basis as programme lead for the new Inverclyde Cares project.

The new programme aims to create a network of organisations - from the third, public and private sectors - to promote kindness, compassion and equality'.

Inverclyde Cares will aim to 'engage communities, connect people and build neighbourliness and kindness'.

Alison said: "I am excited to start this new role and lead Inverclyde Cares.

"We’ve seen over the past year how individuals and organisations in the area have worked together to help the most vulnerable people in Inverclyde.

"Inverclyde Cares will keep this momentum going as we begin our recovery.

"Many people will be facing social and economic challenges in the wake of the pandemic so the role of the third sector will continue to be vital."

Alison’s secondment to CVSI will last for 12 months and is being funded by the health and social care partnership and Ardgowan Hospice.

Charlene Elliott, CVSI chief executive, added: "I’m pleased to be utilising CVSI’s strong resources and networks to support the development of Inverclyde Cares.

"We are thrilled that Alison can join and take on the role as programme lead for Inverclyde Cares.

"The merging of the boards with Alison at the helm is an important step to aid Inverclyde’s recovery.

"It will mean we can work collaboratively and harness people and resources from across sectors and organisations.

"Alison brings a wealth of experience to lead this."