Make a friend, enjoy a cuppa, and discover that missing Link
A CHARITY aimed at helping people who would otherwise be on their own has launched a new event aimed at making new friends.
The Link Visiting Scheme has created the new pop-up cafe to welcome anyone in the borough who may be feeling lonely or isolated, whatever their age.
“We work primarily with older people at The link, but Link Thursday is for anyone who could do with seeing a friendly face,” said the charity’s CEO Marjie Walker.
“This is a dementia friendly space where everyone can feel safe and welcomed, but it isn’t only for older residents.
“We focus on providing an exceptional welcome for all who come through the door.”
Ms Walker says that loneliness can be an issue for people of any age.
“We lead such individual lives, and isolation can affect us all,” she continued.
“One of the reasons for setting up this pop-up was to prevent people needing the kind of specialist services we provide for older residents at The Link.
“We want to help people get back on their feet fast, and to feel connected.”
She continued: “We have lots of information, particularly for older people, about other groups they can join in their local area too.
“And we can put them in touch with local transport initiatives if they need them.”
Visitors to Link Thursday can enjoy a range of activities, including table top games, listening to speakers, and sharing hobbies.
The group recently took part in pancake decorating.
“We’ve had a good response so far, but we’re very keen for more people to join us,” said Ms Walker.
“It’s fun: we’ve had a talk from Keep Moving, taken part in chair yoga, and enjoyed visits from childminders with youngsters.
“We hope that anyone feeling lonely will come along and find friendship, help, support.”
Today at 2pm, the group will hear about the importance of technology enabled care.
On Thursday, February 22, at 1pm, visitors can take part in gardening and nature-related activities.
Link Thursdays take place at All Saints Church’s newly refurbished SpaceForAll communty cafe, on Wiltshire Road, from 10am through to 4pm. Hot drinks, cakes, and snacks are available to purchase.
■ For more information, visit: www. linkvisiting.org