AllAboardPX
Wymondham community responds to isolation issue 

A project in Wymondham is addressing the issue of loneliness by launching a new project to serve older people in the community.

Hub Community Project, a Wymondham based charity, is launching a new project for those who feel lonely or isolated to meet up with others for companionship, food and fun.

The project is called  All Aboard and will take on a ‘holiday at home’ format for people in the local community with three days of themed activities, food and entertainment including a coach outing.

There has been much media coverage recently about the impact of loneliness in our communities. Debbie Rose, Trustee of the Hub Community Project, said, “Loneliness can affect people of all ages but for the elderly it can be an issue which leads to emotional and mental health problems. The project aims to gather older people and connect them with those with similar interests so that lasting friendships can be formed.”

“Many older people live alone and are not often visited by their children or other relatives. They can also often lose touch with their other contacts, as they or their friends become increasingly ill and less able to leave their homes, or they suffer bereavements which leave them feeling less able to make connections with new people.

This isolation is widespread among those over 75, with nearly half saying that television or pets are their main form of company, and with as many as 13% of over 75 year olds admitting that they are either often or always lonely.

The project is supported by two local retailers, One Stop and the Coop, each by making a grant towards the costs from their 5p charge for carrier bags. The Manager of Wymondham Coop Alan Tilley said, “I am really proud that we can support such a worthwhile cause in our community”.

At the close of the project people will be signposted to local activities; with a companion it is hoped that they will be able to play a fuller part in the community. Evidence shows that combatting loneliness in this way will have a positive and beneficial effect of the health of those attending.
All Aboard, will take place from Tuesday April 10 to Thurs April 12 at the Hub, Ayton Road, Wymondham, NR18 0QJ.

The project costs £30 per person inclusive of refreshments, lunch, coach and entry fees. Booking is essential, for a booking form please call 01953 798505. For more information please contact Linda, email linda.bradbeer@lineone.net or call 01603 812619

Hub Community Project runs a number of support activities for families in the community, see their website www.hubproject.org.uk for full details.