Christmas Parties for Lonely Older People
The Pitch
Problem statement
Spending a lot of time unaccompanied, our older people tell us how isolating Christmas can be; especially as they are constantly reminded that for most, it is a time when friends and family come together. This can cause further deterioration in mental health and wellbeing, which is now well documented to have substantial impact on physical health. According to the Campaign to End Loneliness, lacking social connections is a comparable risk factor for early death to smoking 15 cigarettes daily
Solution
We aim to combat this by including them in the festivities, creating a memorable, enjoyable day. This year we will be hosting a variety of smaller Christmas parties throughout our sheltered care schemes and in our community centre; giving around 100 older people the opportunity to celebrate the festive season with other members of their community and nurture friendships. The events will include: Entertainment Music and dancing Delicious Food Handwritten Christmas Cards and presents for guests It was a lovely place and such a wonderful party. It was so well-organised, and the staff(/volunteers) paid so much attention to everyone. It made me feel elated!” (Last year's attendee)
Why are we best placed to deliver?
Our long-established befriending and outreach service has been providing support and social connection to vulnerable people for over 10 years through one-to-one befriending, group befriending and outreach support. These vital services enable our service users (SUs) to nurture new friendships and rebuild their confidence to become independent, active community members, whilst also ensuring their general health and wellbeing is supported. Last year was our first festive celebration with our older people post-pandemic, enabling 100 individuals to enjoy festivities in a safe, accessible and welcoming environment. We hope to continue that this year, creating memories for isolated people.
Focus Areas
Delivery plan
Budget breakdown
| Food costs for 100 guests | £1,795 |
| Entertainment -DJs and Singers performing across our parties | £928 |
Beneficiaries
100 people
Who will benefit
Expected impact
Our project will bring some much-needed joy, entertainment, and a feeling of togetherness to the older people in our community. We aim to combat the devastating loneliness that can be felt over the festive period and cold winter months this by being there for through our long established befriending and outreach service and including them in the festivities, creating a memorable, enjoyable day. Outcomes will include - - Feeling less lonely - Feeling more active and involved in things in their community - Felling a greater sense of enjoyment in life - Feeling more optimistic about the future
Track record
Our long-established befriending and outreach service has been providing support and social connection to vulnerable people for over 10 years through one-to-one befriending, group befriending and outreach support. These vital services enable our service users (SUs) to nurture new friendships and rebuild their confidence to become independent, active community members, whilst also ensuring their general health and wellbeing is supported. Last year was our first festive celebration with our older people post-pandemic, enabling 100 elderly isolated individuals to enjoy festivities in a safe, accessible and welcoming environment. We hope to continue that this year creating memories for those who would be otherwise alone.