Stars come out as the Prime Minister thanks volunteers
Each day this week we will look back to a memorable moment from the last five years of The Yorkshire Post’s Loneliness: The Hidden Epidemic campaign.
IT WAS a cold December day when, from across the region, volunteers and the older people they supported through befriending and friendship groups, headed down to London for an extra special Christmas party.
Number 10 Downing Street was the address, and The Yorkshire Post and Prime Minister David Cameron were co-hosts for a party that not only aimed to raise awareness of loneliness at Christmas, but recognised those who worked hard in our communities to alleviate it.
The party, in December 2015, came ten months after Mr Cameron had first backed the Loneliness campaign, calling on people to “step up and do more” to help those suffering in isolation.
After a three-course meal prepared by Downing Street chefs, there was a surprise in store for the guests, as the stars of BBC’s popular Strictly Come Dancing performed, and then invited the guests onto the dancefloor.
They included Sara Taylor, 84 from Barnsley, who was one of the first on her feet with professional dancer Anton du Beke.
The keen dancer said: “My husband was a wonderful dancer and I haven’t had a partner since he died.
“I was one of the first up to dance as I know the steps.”
Mr Cameron told The Yorkshire Post that day: “Christmas is a time that should be filled with joy and celebration – not loneliness and isolation. And yet there are too many people, often older people, who will spend this festive season alone.
“Whether it’s popping round for a chat, making a cup of tea, donating a gift, or just keeping in touch, you can’t underestimate what a big difference small, caring acts and companionship can make to someone who is on their own.”