Age UK celebrates Befriending Week with special afternoon tea in Scarborough
Older people and volunteers came together for a special afternoon tea at the Palm Court Hotel to celebrate Befriending Week on Wednesday, November 4.
The event, held to mark the annual campaign which runs from November 1 to 7, was made possible thanks to generous funding from The Julia Rausing Trust enabling the charity to expand the activities it offers.
The charity’s befriending service supports 133 individuals across Scarborough and the surrounding areas, with volunteers typically visiting their companions for one to two hours each week. Visits can involve a simple cup of tea and a chat, a trip to the garden centre or a leisurely walk.
A total of 50 people attended the afternoon tea, although some older people are housebound and some volunteers have work commitments, meaning not everyone was able to take part.
Tracey Armstrong, Befriending Coordinator, said: “Loneliness and isolation can lead to significant issues for older people, including mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Research also suggests a link between loneliness and dementia.
“Therefore, I believe this service is essential for Scarborough and the surrounding areas.
“Some of our volunteers are older themselves but still active. They often express how rewarding volunteering is, as it provides them with a sense of purpose and they gain as much from the experience as those they visit.
“We also have our young volunteers aged 16 and over, who enjoy visiting an older person, playing a card game or teaching them how to work their phone.”
The service is continuing to recruit volunteers, with opportunities available to people of all ages, including those aged 16 and over.
Tracey said: “ Volunteering can be flexible, with opportunities ranging from weekly face-to-face visits to telephone befriending, where volunteers call someone each week for between 30 minutes and an hour.”
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can contact Tracey directly on 01723 379058, email [email protected] or visit the charity’s office at Aberdeen Walk in Scarborough.
The application process involves completing an application form and undergoing a DBS check, which is provided free of charge.
Volunteers are then matched with an older person based on shared interests or geographical proximity.