'No one should have no one campaign' - supporting the elderly in South Lakeland, Cumbria.
More than 850,000 older people could be spending this Christmas alone - including many who live in the small villages of South Lakeland in Cumbria.
After what’s been a terrifying and isolating year for many, older people in South Lakeland are looking ahead to a Christmas like no other in living memory.
Before the outbreak of coronavirus, we were already facing a loneliness epidemic amongst older people. But as a result of the pandemic, this crisis has intensified.
With the ongoing threat of coronavirus and restrictions curbing many people’s already limited social contact, this Christmas could be the loneliest yet for the older people most in need in our communities.
Miss Wheatman, a higher level teaching assistant at Wings Cumbria has worked hard with our young people to help support Age UK South Lakeland. We are supporting 14 local residents whose only contact is with Age UK. With Miss Wheatman's help, our young people have each written a pen pal letter and wrapped a lovely little gift containing some festive biscuits, mince pies and teabags with the intention that each resident can enjoy a cup of tea and biscuit whilst reading their letter. We hope to spread a little bit of Christmas cheer.
Age UK are working hard to relieve the isolation and despair felt by so many older people. Every day, older people turn to Age UK South Lakeland for practical and emotional support - and this Christmas will be no different.
Our hope at Wings Cumbria is to invite some of the residents who respond to our letters, into school to meet our young people and enjoy a cup of tea in person. (Post Covid).
We cannot let the older people of South Lakeland suffer alone. Not this year. Not ever