RE-ENGAGE is inviting people aged 75 and over, who live alone across Manchester, to join its free monthly tea parties to help them form new friendships.
The social gatherings provide a lifeline for older people who can sometimes go days without speaking to anyone, and the regular companionship provides a vital link with the outside world.
The national charity also arranges transport, so guests are picked up and taken to and from the tea parties.
Social isolation and loneliness can have huge mental and physical health implications, including, increased risks of depression, dementia, high blood pressure and heart problems.
Re-engage is committed to tackling this by helping older people to re-engage with their communities through regular social contact, giving them a support network and something to look forward to.
The tea party groups usually meet on the last Sunday of every month, but the charity needs more volunteers to host gatherings and is also looking for drivers to collect and accompany the older guests to their event.
Meryl Davies, Chief Executive of Re-engage, said: “For older people who live alone, Sundays can be particularly long and difficult.
“Our tea party groups are joyful, life-affirming gatherings that bring generations together and are a lifeline for isolated older people who can go days without any contact from the outside world.
“Together we can change lives and provide desperately needed companionship to end the constant loneliness felt by so many. If you have a few hours to spare each month, please do get in touch.”
Volunteering at Re-engage can be an incredibly rewarding experience and you will receive support and training to help you get the most out of your role. Drivers will need to have a valid driving licence and their own car and would need to be available one Sunday a month. Hosts generally host an event once or twice a year.
Marcia, who has been attending a tea party for five years, urged others to get involved.
She said: “I’d recommend it to anyone who feels in need of some company, as I have truly made some fantastic friends – the group is so varied, and the Sunday afternoons are just so enjoyable – the chatter just goes on and on!”
If you are interested in joining a tea party, or if you know someone aged 75 and over who is living alone in the Manchester area who could benefit from coming along to a tea party, call 0800 716 543 (freephone) or email info@reengage.org.uk.
Find out more online: www.reengage.org.uk
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