Age UK Northwest Kent and volunteers from Interventions Alliance recently hosted a Christmas party for older people in Gravesend, Kent.

The event was open to all seniors in the local community and was especially welcome at a time when the cost of living is hitting seniors particularly hard this winter.

Commenting on the event, Tracey Kadir, Director of Public Protection Services, said: “Members from our Gravesend office were delighted to volunteer to help set up for this party, and had fun joining in with the entertainment. This time of year can be difficult and lonely for many seniors, so we wanted to do something to help provide some festive cheer and ensure that older people feel valued and cared for by their local communities.”

Nikki Manwaring, Age UK Northwest Kent, said: “Makes all the hard work worth the effort to see our Chatty Chum members enjoying a Christmas party with their friends, having a tipple, dancing and having a great time!”

Age UK is a national charity that works with a network of partners, to help everyone make the most of later life, whatever their circumstances. In the North West of England, Interventions Alliance and Age UK work in partnership to deliver well-being and practical support to the senior population being held in HMP Risley. The goal of our work is to ensure participants on this programme are well equipped to transition back into society.

Many of those on our programmes will not have experienced practical things we take for granted, which can be a stressful and difficult experience. Participating in the programme removes some of this anxiety and hopefully allows for a smoother and more successful release into society. The trusted partnership with Age UK ensures that the services and work that is done is well informed and based on significant experience of supporting older people.

For more information on our partnership with Age UK visit: Improving older prisoners’ rehabilitation and wellbeing with Age UK Mid Mersey | Interventions Alliance

If you need support, Age UK Advice Line is open every day of the year 8am – 7pm on 0800 169 6565

Photo left to right: Jack Budgen, Rupert Nesbitt-Day, Ravina Chahal, Julia Barber, Mike Bramley, Carl Hall and Tracey Kadir