Can you help us make a difference says charity looking to help more elderly and lonely people?

By Neil Speight 26th Aug 2022

AN appeal has gone out to Thurrock residents for volunteers to help lift the spirits of older and lonely people in the borough by transporting to and from social events.

The Re-engage Thurrock charity has become well know for its efforts to bring groups of older people together by organising tea parties and events that definitely raise spirits and create friendships for the guests, but also bring hugely rewarding moments for the volunteers who make it happen.

Thurrock Nub News has regularly reported on events – and a selection of happy memories can be viewed via the links below.

But more volunteer drivers and tea party hosts are required if the good work is to go on and hopefully be expanded.

Volunteer co-ordinator Loraine Coleman says: "Since Covid we have struggled to attract very many new volunteers.

"We have elderly tea party guests on our waiting list that cannot join until we have more volunteers join us.

"It's not a huge commitment. Can you spare four hours a month on a Sunday afternoon to change the lives of lonely, isolated elderly residents in Thurrock?

"It is not a big commitment of time, just a few hours a month for drivers and once or twice a year for hosts. Anyone with a downstairs toilet and no more than a few steps into their home can apply to be a host.

"If you are unable to host or volunteer, would you be willing to sponsor a tea party for one of our local groups?"

If you would like to alleviate loneliness among older people in Thurrock, contact Maggie Whitlock on 07588 883901 or by email to [email protected].

Recently one of the local groups of guests enjoyed a special celebration to mark the upcoming 100th birthday of guest Gwen Thomas.

She is part of Re-engage Thurrock's 'Group One' and its coordinator, Ira Gill, said: "We celebrated in St Clement's Church, situated in the grounds of Procter & Gamble.

"Gwen is one of our original guests when Re-engage launched its free tea parties in seven years ago.

"Gwen still enjoys outings, a glass of red wine, and, has a razor sharp mind. We love her to bits. Thank you to all of the dear volunteers and guests who made this such a lovely afternoon."