June Meeting – Supporting Older People
Our June meeting was an informative talk about the work of local charity ‘Supporting Older People’ (SOP). The charity was established in 1982 across Harrogate and Knaresborough to combat loneliness and is still making a difference after 43 years. Its aim from the start was to reduce loneliness for older people and show them that they are still an important part of their community.
An Increased Need for Support
The charity helps to support those who struggle with stress, anxiety, mental health problems and helps boost their lives with positivity. To be part of this group people can be referred through agencies, their GP or by self-referring. Since the pandemic isolation in the older age group has increased 10-fold, leading to an increased need for support.
Schemes to Prevent Loneliness
SOP run many different schemes to help prevent loneliness and support older people. The befriending scheme is where volunteers will visit someone to chat over a cuppa or talk with them over the phone. Volunteers may also accompany an older person on outings, such as ‘eat and talk’ (afternoon tea), club meals, trips to the coast, cinema or theatre. Volunteers may also help drive members to their appointments.
The charity also supports other charities by donating thousands of pounds every year.
Get Involved
This charity helps to change lives for the better, a very worthwhile cause and are always looking for volunteers. If you feel you have a little spare time and could help, contact the SOP team on 01423 531490.
Social Time & Plant Swap
As well as the talk, which the Spa Sweethearts all found very informative, we enjoyed a drink and slice of chocolate Guinness cake, homemade by Shirley. We also had a ‘plant swap’ with members bringing along plants and seeds to exchange.
July Meeting
Our July meeting is on Thursday 10th July and we’ll be going to the Valley Gardens for a walk. To join us please meet at the entrance to Valley Gardens, opposite the Pump Room Museum, for a 7:30pm start. Afterwards there will be the option to go for a drink at a local pub.