Kent afternoon tea club helps lonely elderly

PUBLISHED: 10:36 14 January 2020 | UPDATED: 10:36 14 January 2020

Afternoon tea club in Kent

Archant

A lawyer from Canterbury has launched a new Sunday afternoon tea party for senior citizens in the city who live alone or have limited contact with other people.

Melanie Christodoulou, an Associate at law firm Furley Page, will arrange monthly afternoon tea parties on behalf of Re-engage (formerly Contact the Elderly).

The charity brings older people together at a time in their lives when their social circles are diminishing, in order to tackle isolation and loneliness by organising social groups with volunteers.

Each month, Melanie will work with a different volunteer to host an afternoon tea party for up to 10 elderly guests, many of whom are housebound and have very little contact with others.

Speaking about her decision to launch the new Canterbury group, Melanie said: "It is a sad fact that older people are especially vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation, which can have a dramatic impact on their health and wellbeing.

"Re-engage's vision is a world where no one is ever too old to make friends and enjoy social interaction and the tea parties give people something to look forward to each month.

"I am very excited to have launched the new Canterbury tea party club. The group will provide a friendly event where members can chat, socialise and hopefully make new friendships."

Melanie's colleague, Val Prosser, launched the Re-engage group in Whitstable and Herne Bay several years ago. A Senior Associate who specialises in helping elderly and vulnerable clients, Val co-ordinates a team of tea party hosts and drivers. She also recently arranged a Christmas party for all Re-engage members and volunteers.

If you would like to know more about Re-engage Sunday afternoon tea parties in Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay, call 01227 763939 or email Melanie Christodoulou mlc@furleypage.co.uk or Val Prosser vjp@furleypage.co.uk

For more information about Re-engage, visit: www.reengage.org.uk