We're tackling loneliness this Christmas

We're looking to tackle record levels of loneliness this Christmas with a dinner event for people living on their own

As shocking statistics show 81% of older people will struggle to afford a Christmas meal this year, we are giving lonely people the chance to enjoy a free festive meal this weekend.

A survey by Salvation Army shows older people will be struggling more than ever to afford to feed themselves this year, while recent ONS data shows the North East is the loneliest region of the UK, with almost 9 per cent of people saying they ‘often or always’ feel lonely.

On the back of these shocking statistics, we will provide 25 isolated people from across the area with a free meal this Christmas, as well as the chance to spend social time with their peers.

The ‘Christmas Together’ event, where isolated older people will enjoy a three-course lunch as well as Christmas-themed activities, will take place at Cedar Grove Wellbeing Centre, Wallsend, this Sunday from 11.30am until 2.30pm.

Sonya Roe, Head of Charity Services at Age UK North Tyneside, said: “Eradicating loneliness amongst older people across the region is a huge priority for us.

“The last few years have seen a surge in loneliness and social isolation across the country because of the fallout from Covid-19, and statistics show the North East has more lonely people than anywhere in the country.

“Add to this the current cost of living crisis and what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of year can turn into the worst time of year for many.

“By providing this lunch to potentially isolated older people, we hope to make their Christmas that much better for 2022, and we will continue to fight loneliness through our various programmes and services into 2023.”

The event is part of our End Loneliness Campaign, which provides activities to bring older people together right through the year whilst highlighting how others can get involved and make an impact.

We have a variety of ways in which it is combatting loneliness, including an in-person and telephone Befriending service, and various social and keep-fit groups. The pandemic saw us dramatically increase our online offering to help reach more isolated people.  

Meanwhile, our Information and Advice team is on hand to help older people through the cost of living crisis, by helping to ensure they are accessing all of the benefits and support to which they are entitled.

This Sunday, charity staff will be on hand to signpost attendees to local support services, which they otherwise might miss out on.

The lunch is being part-funded by Procter and Gamble, based at Cobalt Business Park.

Andy Sherwood, part of the Community Matters team at Procter and Gamble, said: “‘We are so pleased to be able to help out such a great cause through the awarding of a P&G Employees Charities Fund Christmas grant.

“This is made possible by generous P&G employees who donate funds to the Employees Charities Fund so thank you to everyone!”

To find out more about what Age UK North Tyneside offer, call us on 0191 280 8484 or get in touch online.