MICRO charities in north Hampshire have received support from one of the area’s MPs.

North West Hampshire MP, Kit Malthouse is set to appeal to ministers that these smaller charities need more access to funds to combat loneliness.

His plea comes after the MP visited Oakley Men’s Shed where older men, who are often lonely or isolated, get together and work on their practical skills.

Mr Malthouse said: “Feeling lonely and isolated can have a devastating effect on people’s lives. It can affect any of us, no matter our age, background or lifestyle.

“I recently visited Oakley Men’s Shed where older men, often lonely or isolated, can get together, work on their practical skills and enjoy making and mending. It’s a brilliant way to build friendships and share skills and knowledge over cups of tea. Humans were made to talk to each other and use their hands to make things, repair things and cook food - this scheme encourages that and is helping many people. “We have many schemes like this across North West Hampshire and they are vital in fighting the scourge of loneliness.

“It’s often the smaller charities that play an important part in setting them up, and I’m going to see what more we can do to help them access funding.”

Since his visit Mr Malthouse has decided write to ministers to see what further funding can be opened up to micro charities fighting loneliness.