Enfield’s older residents are invited to Friendship Matters, a free event to help them meet people from all walks of life, make new friends and learn about how to be healthier in old age.
Hosted by Enfield Council at the Dugdale Centre on 22 June, the event aims to help those who are most vulnerable to loneliness and isolation reach out and connect with others.
They will be able to try out activities including chair-based yoga and Tai-Chi and enjoy a cup of tea, a slice of cake and a chat with fellow ‘Friends’ from the community. Businesses and charities will be on hand to talk to and offer advice and there will be demonstrations about staying safe in the home, personal security and scam awareness.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for health and social care, Cllr Alev Cazimoglu, said: “While not all of our older residents experience loneliness it has been recognised that they are especially vulnerable to social isolation which in turn can have a serious effect on their physical and mental health. We see this event as a stepping stone to help people re-energise their social skills, have fun and make new friends for the long term.
“If you know of anyone who may benefit from this event, why not let them know or better still bring them along”
According to Age UK, more than two million people in England over the age of 75 live alone and more than a million older people say they go for over a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member.
Friendship Matters will take place at the Dugdale Centre, 39 London Road, EN2 6DS, on Friday 22 June between 10am and 3pm. There is no need to register your attendance in advance.
If you are interested in some of the themes of this event, why not sign up to Enfield Council’s newsletter so you can be kept informed of future, similar programmes.