More opportunities to help combat loneliness and isolation!
Following the launch of the ACE Neighbours project in Hartcliffe, Withywood and Keynsham, St Monica Trust is now launching the project in the areas of Lawrence Hill and Filwood.
The 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 in the local area.
Volunteers accompany people to activities until they feel confident attending on their own. The project also arranges group meetings so that people can support each other and make friends in their journey to becoming more active!
St Monica Trust are always on the look out for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers over the age of 60 to join the project! If you’re interested in supporting someone to connect with things going in their area for 6 months then please do consider joining as a volunteer. Apply now!
Please note St Monica Trust are running a training day for volunteers across all areas on Tuesday 2nd October, 10am-4pm in Keynsham so please do get in touch asap if you’re interested in supporting the project.
Volunteer Ann told us why she originally chose to get involved with 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.”
The project would also like to hear from you if you know an older person (65+) who is experiencing loneliness and is lacking in confidence to get out and about. Would they like someone to help them choose an activity or two – and go along with them for moral support?
Further information including the referral criteria and how to apply to be a volunteer can be found here: www.linkagenetwork.org.uk/projects/ace-neighbours/
Contact details:
For any queries or to talk more about the project please contact Catherine or Kathleen on 0117 305 2365.
St Monica Trust is a member of LinkAge Network.