Club tackling loneliness among Rotherham’s elderly

Seen at a recent meeting are members with (back row second left) Joan Maudling, group chairperson and (back row left) Margaret Powell, volunteer. 171644

A SOCIAL club helping to alleviate loneliness in older people is appealing for new members to give it a try.

The Archway Foundation holds three cafe mornings a week at Rotherham Minster, as well as monthly social evenings and regular daytrips.

But membership has dropped and volunteers are keen for more people to go along and meet new people.

Organiser Joan Maudling said: “It’s open to anyone and it’s aimed at people who might be feeling a little lonely. It tends to be people in their 70s and 80s, although our current group goes to 93.

“Some can’t really go out on their own because they might need help in various ways. Others might feel daunted going out in the evening if it wasn’t for this.

“One lady, who has multiple sclerosis, likes to be independent but can only actually move one hand to control her wheelchair. The foundation is something she looks forward to.

“We used to have up to 40 people coming but we’re down to about 15 now. We would really like to welcome some new faces.”

The Minster mornings take place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am to noon.

The social evenings are held at Herringthorpe United Reform Church once every four weeks. The cost is £6 and includes entertainment, refreshments and door-to-door community transport.

Joan said: “We also aim to provide two or three day trips a year. We’ve been to the Peak District, the last was a boat trip in Nottinghamshire and we will have our Christmas party.”

For more information, contact Joan on 07909 072880.