A new initiative has been launched to reduce loneliness among the elderly in Buckie.
Contact the Elderly organise regular Sunday afternoon tea parties across the country for socially-isolated older people, and has now set one up in the town.
They enjoyed their first gathering in the town at the weekend.
Guests, who may find it difficult to get out and about, are chauffeured by the charity’s volunteer drivers to a get-together in a local volunteer host’s home.
When there, they can enjoy a couple of hours of conversation and company over a cup of tea and some cake.
Portgordon resident Mary Vance was the first host, and was joined by local councillor Sonya Warren.
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She said: “I’m delighted to see this valuable project start in the Buckie area. We have a growing ageing population here in Moray, which in itself brings many challenges. Social isolation and loneliness is a big concern and greatly impacts on the well being of the older members of our community.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in starting this project here, it’s a great idea. Hopefully other folk in the community will get on board by volunteering to help support the sharing of hospitality and friendship across the generations and helping the more elderly members of our community.”
This is the second group to be set up in Moray, with one in Elgin already proving to be popular.
The charity is also looking at setting one up in Forres, and are keen to find more volunteers to help out in Banff.
Denise Robson, a development officer for Contact the Elderly, urged volunteers to get involved.
She said: “It doesn’t involve a huge commitment – just a couple of hours a month for the drivers and we’d like hosts to invite a group two or three times a year.
“But anyone who has been to one of our parties will know just what a difference that small amount of time and kindness make to the life of an older person who doesn’t have much opportunity to socialise.”
To find out more contact Ms Robson on: 01542 285010 or denise.robson@contact-the-elderly.org.uk
