‘Contact The Elderly’ Launches Friendship Event In Taunton

Old people who live alone sometimes struggle making friends, which is why one charity is helping them connect with others in the same boat.

The Contact the Elderly organisation helps those over the age of 75 to meet up through monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties so they do not feel as lonely or isolated.

Taunton is the latest location that has taken up the initiative, and those living in the town can get picked up from their home by a volunteer driver and taken to a host’s house for tea and a chat, the Somerset County Gazette revealed.

Regional development officer for the charity Helen Ker said: “For older people who live alone, Sundays can be particularly long and difficult.”

She added that these afternoons give the elderly an opportunity to make new friends and get out of the house, adding: “The monthly events make a real difference to the lives of those in the group and we would encourage anyone interested in coming along … to get in touch.”

The initiative began in 1965 and has since supported more than 100,000 older people, particularly helping those who have very little contact with friends or family.

A children’s book has just been released to highlight the issue of loneliness and raise awareness about helping others who are more vulnerable.

James and the Amazing Gift by Nicola J Rowley has been launched just in time for Christmas to encourage children to learn more about spreading happiness to others, and £1 from each sale will go towards Contact the Elderly.

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