Community Fund award supporting older people in Amesbury
Irene Kohler, is very pleased to announce that the Community Fund grant we have been awarded to support older people includes Amesbury. Initially to deliver afternoon teas as soon as lockdown is lifted, and to involve older people more closely in the planning and delivery of a Silver Sunday programme in celebration of International Older People’s Day at the beginning of October.
As we couldn’t deliver teas in January as planned due to lockdown, it was replaced by delivery of activity packs to 400 older people at home in Amesbury and surrounding villages as well as Salisbury and Wilton. We felt it was really important that older people, many of whom live alone and were isolating or isolated, should know they are not forgotten. Volunteers delivering the packs said how good it was to see people at the front door they had not seen for weeks. The tea delivery is now being planned for as soon as we know when lockdown will be lifted; hopefully the end of March or early April. If you are aware of older people who are isolated at home and for whom having tea delivered to them would make a real difference, then email Irene on silver.salisbury@outlook.com
Planning for the 2021 programme has now started. Irene says “ We know that after months and months of staying safe staying at home, some people are apprehensive about venturing out or socialising even when distanced. We plan for our programme to keep within safety guidelines whilst including opportunities for people to enjoy events with old friends and meeting new ones. The Community Fund grant means that we can engage a part-time freelance outreach worker help us to reach people alone or isolated.” The job application details are available on www.silversalisbury.co.uk
In spite of the wonderful news of the grant, and the help of local sponsors, the group would be delighted to hear from volunteers who can bake, help with delivery, or who are aware of elderly neighbours for whom receiving a tea would make a real difference. If you can offer to help, please email Irene on silver.salisbury@outlook.com. You can also help to reach more people by supporting the Silver Salisbury Group by purchasing tickets on the new Salisbury City Community Lottery on sale from Tuesday 16th February.
Irene Kohler
Salisbury Older People’s Champion
Press contact 01722 323 812
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