Connecting with elderly and vulnerable residents on the run up to Christmas

Tackling loneliness during Christmas one conversation at a time

The Christmas period can be a very isolating time for elderly and vulnerable residents. Older and vulnerable people are especially vulnerable to loneliness – and it can have a serious impact on health.

Volunteers from across Poplar HARCA will be giving residents over 70 and vulnerable residents either a phone call or a visit. Last year we managed to have 745 conversations with residents and also arranged 154 home visits.

The phone calls and visit are not only a way of making these residents feel more connected, but are also an opportunity for us to let residents know where they can go for any support needs they may have.

Chelsea Kelly, Head of Community Safeguarding, said: “This is the sixth time we’ve done this – and every year we’re reminded of what an impact it has. It’s amazing what a conversation can do to make someone feel a bit more positive and a bit more connected. The feedback we get from residents who take part in this is overwhelmingly positive. It always puts a smile on my face.”

Elders Christmas Lunch

We also host an annual Christmas lunch for residents over 60. This is a chance for residents over 60 to enjoy a three-course Christmas meal and have some festive fun.

We’ve run this lunch for a number of years and it’s always been a great event for all attendees. We usually see around 80 people coming to the event and enjoying a festive afternoon. Last year, one person who attended, Brian, said: “It’s wonderful that Poplar HARCA hosts these lunches so us older folks can come together and celebrate Christmas.”

This year’s Elders Christmas Lunch

Thursday 19 December, 1pm to 4pm
The Feldy, 18 Aberfeldy Square, E14 0XA
£6 per person

To book get in touch with your nearest community centre.