Engage with Re-engage

Could you spare one or two Sunday afternoons a year to host a Sunday afternoon tea party for people aged 75 and over who are lonely, isolated or in need of a little companionship? Local Welland resident Elle Hanlon is the volunteer coordinator for national charity Re-Engage, a group that is dedicated to bringing generations together for a few hours to help end social isolation.

“Before I moved to Welland I ran the Worcester group and now, having become involved in various community activities in a bid to get to know people locally, I realised that we have a few people in Welland who volunteer either as hosts or as drivers to get our patrons to and from the tea parties. I’m really impressed with the community spirit here in Welland so I’m hopeful that we can build our numbers and of course we welcome anyone who would benefit from attending one of our tea parties – often the highlight of the month for many folks, “ says Elle.

If you are interested in becoming a host, then it is a once or twice yearly commitment as host homes take it in turns and drivers should be available once a month for between 3-4 hours and they get the benefit of an afternoon tea! 

Local host Anne Garner says:” It’s always a happy and entertaining afternoon and wonderful to sit and listen to the chatter and see the joy a simple tea party can bring to people. As volunteer hosts we don’t get paid and we usually provide lots of tea, cake and sandwiches, hosting between 6-9 people.”

Photo: Enjoying an afternoon tea with a special equine guest!

If you are interested in becoming a host, driver or know someone who would benefit from attending one of Re-Engage’s monthly tea parties, please contact Elle by email at ellevintageteaservice@gmail.com or give her a call on 07905 542304.