A host of celebrities including Midge Ure, Nile Rodgers and Sanjeev Kohli have backed the launch of an online platform designed to signpost citizens to services, events and activities in local communities across Scotland.  

Frog, created by a Glasgow-based company Frog Systems, is designed to help tackle health and social care issues and to encourage people to lead healthier lifestyles.  

The platform provides access to information needed by local communities to connect and bring people together; from car boot sales and concerts to support groups and community clean-up initiatives.  

Frog Systems chairman Nick Kuenssberg OBE said the platform could help to tackle isolation, loneliness and fitness problems – which are widely recognised as major health issues across the country.  

“Every day sees the release of a new report calling for transformational change and investment in our communities to reduce isolation,” he said.

“We believe that a major starting point in tackling this issue is the promotion of the many support and activity-based groups already providing services within communities. Frog signposts and connects people to the information they are seeking at the point of need.”

A key feature of Frog is the Champions Cinema, an online channel where users can share their stories and personal experiences in short 60 second videos.  

Frog will feature videos of support group organisers, ex-offenders and veterans detailing their life experiences and sharing skills and knowledge for the betterment of others in their communities.  

Music legends, Nile Rodgers and Midge Ure, as well as actor and comedian Sanjeev Kohli, have also produced their own videos for the launch of Frog. Having experienced their own personal challenges, the entertainment stars decided to back the initiative and help others.  

Cal Dunan, CEO and founder of Frog Systems, has experienced his own recovery journey and is now over a decade clean and sober.

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Dunan said that a significant turning point in his own recovery helped provide inspiration for the online community platform.  

“The turning point in my own life came when I listened to someone who had been on a similar journey to myself telling and showing me that it was possible to change,” Dunan explained. 

“Visible peer support is a vital enabler is helping people overcome their own personal challenge,” he added.  

“Fortunately, we now feel less stigmatised and more comfortable in sharing our stories publicly. The Champions Cinema provides a powerful platform for people to do so.”

Frog is currently inviting all local third sector, community and support groups across Scotland to upload their details for free.