Support to tackle loneliness and isolation plus volunteering opportunity.
St Monica Trust has launched the ACE Neighbours project in Keynsham and we are looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers over the age of 60 to join us. We are also asking those living or working in Keynsham to get in touch with us if an older person is experiencing loneliness and is lacking in confidence to get out and about. The project which also runs in Hartcliffe and Withywood and volunteers are on hand to offer support immediately. Those who are currently being supported by a volunteer are enjoying joining in weekly walks, swimming, knitting and even a theatre trip.
We know that getting out more, meeting people and enjoying some of the many activities that go on is really good for the health of older people – but getting out more is easier said than done. It can be a bit daunting, so not surprisingly most people would prefer to have someone to go with.
The ACE Neighbours project aims to reduce feelings of loneliness by encouraging older people to be more active – whether it’s going for a walk, going out for a coffee or trying a new activity. Those who take part in the project are matched with an older volunteer – they spend the first few weeks getting to know each other and then together they try out some of the activities going on locally. Volunteers accompany people to activities until they feel confident attending on their own.
If you know someone who lives in Keynsham, Hartcliffe or Withywood, is over 65 years old and would like someone to help them choose an activity or two – and go along with them for moral support – then get in touch. Or if you’d like to join us as a volunteer we’d love to hear from you.
Our volunteer Ann Clifford told us why she originally chose to get involved in the project:
It was great to feel that I was making a difference to someone’s life. I had great fun, learnt lots of new things and took part in many activities I wouldn’t have thought of doing.”
Further information including the referral criteria and how to apply to be a volunteer can be found here.
Contact details:
For any queries or to talk more about the project please contact Catherine (Mondays to Wednesdays) on 0781 763 2963 or email: catherine.robinson@stmonicatrust.org.uk