For the first time, people who spend their time visiting people who have suffered as a result of 'the Troubles' in Fermanagh, will have access to accredited training.

The scheme is the brainchild of the Enniskillen-based Ely Centre, and the South East Fermanagh Foundation, which is based in Lisnaskea.

Lee McDowell, the Centre Co-ordinator with the Ely Centre, explained the idea behind the concept: "Myself and Gordon Black, from the South East Fermanagh Foundation, got together and realised there were a number of groups trying to provide this service, and that not all of them constituted as charities.

So, we got together with Sean Coll from the Western Health and Social Services Trust , and Joan Clements from the Community Relations Council and started looking how we could provide enhance this service."

Mr McDowell explained there are already around 40 people registered to avail of the courses, which are offered by the Institute of Leadership and Management, and will take place at the Ely Centre. The courses are divided into a 'Befriending Outreach' course, and another to train those to co-ordinate the teams to run either over one week, or one weekend.

They will equip people with the skills to deal with people who are suffering from trauma. There will also be training and advice on legal issues regarding the befriending service.

Mr McDowell explained the scheme will be of benefit to the 1000-plus victims of 'the Troubles', from both communities, who live in Fermanagh

The programme is the first of its' kind, aimed at tackling social isolation, to be launched in Northern Ireland.

It is led by the Phoenix Group, which has representations from the UDR, RUC, retired officers, Ulster Special Constabulary,  along with the two Fermanagh groups.

It is expected to become a ground-breaking model, which can be rolled-out across Northern Ireland

Latest research shows 17 percent of over-65's go weekly without contact from friends, family or neighbours.