Supporting social summers

Please note: this post is 83 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only

When we think of loneliness, a warm bright summer’s day doesn’t usually spring to mind. More often than not we talk about winter: shorter days and the cold. Yet, if friends or family aren’t around the summer and its associations – catching up with friends over a picnic or alfresco beers – can leave you feeling like you’re missing out. Many of our older neighbours are unable to leave their home, or don’t know where to meet new people or what’s going on in their area. 

South London Cares aims to provide places for older and younger neighbours alike to go to and try out something new. Our social clubs do exactly what the name says: they’re places where people can go to be social and get to know new people. But, importantly they’re also introducing older people to cafes, pubs, galleries, offices and areas they may not have had the confidence to visit by themselves – ensuring they feel more connected to the rapidly changing London around them.

We run between 20-25 of these social clubs each month. In May, one of these clubs was a trip to BeeUrban in Kennington. Younger and older neighbours came together to learn all about what it takes to be a beekeeper – and they even tried their hand at candle-making. 

Phillip, 75, who came to his first club last month, said: “I didn’t know what to expect before I came to my first social club but I must say, it was marvellous from start to finish. I’m so impressed with the range of activities we can try and I love the set up and, of course, (most importantly) the people are all so friendly and welcoming. I can’t wait to meet more of the fold in the coming weeks! I’ll be attending lots more events, just you try and stop me!”. 

Unfortunately, there are many older neighbours who, due to mobility restrictions, are unable to make it along to social clubs. That’s where our Love Your Neighbour programme comes in. By matching up an older neighbour with a younger volunteer to visit once a week for company and a chat, we’re not only tackling isolation but long lasting friendships are created. Feeling disconnected can dissolve when we know we’ll have someone to meet up with year-round.

Nora, 72, matched with Tim, 35, through Love Your Neighbour said “I think it’s great. People like sharing stories and writing memoirs in their life, especially as they get older, so it makes sense to match them with a friend who they can share their stories with. I also like showing off about the places I’ve travelled to! I think Tim likes to talk and learn about his Irish heritage, as his parents are from Ireland.”

Ruth, 28 matched with Theresa, 71, through Love Your Neighbour said “I think the most rewarding thing about Love Your Neighbour is getting to know someone you wouldn’t normally get to meet. It’s so easy for us to open up to one another now and it feels so comfortable for both of us. We chat about anything and everything. I really value being able to talk to Theresa about my life and various situations and get a different perspective and her advice.”

So, thank you to all our wonderful older neighbours and volunteers for being a part of South London Cares year-round. The storytelling, advice-giving and laughter comes from both generations who have shown that whatever your age you can find a sense of belonging in your community. 

If you would like to support our work to tackle isolation throughout the summer months you can donate and fund upcoming activities such as bird watching, yoga and a World Cup party. Or if you have any suggestions on how we can reach more people aged over 65 in Southwark and Lambeth, please email [email protected].