The first recipients of community fund grants, for organisations making a difference to social isolation and loneliness in older residents in North-West Bristol, have been announced by Westbury-on-Trym-based financial advisers, Harold Stephens.
The grants, aimed at helping to foster social connections and enriching lives, have been awarded to three initiatives.
The first grant was awarded to Senior Footprints Group, a weekly term-time get together at Ebenezer Church in Horfield, which is attended by around 35 – 45 people ranging in age from 60 to 96. The group is open to all – carers included – and provides a safe and accessible space for participants to enjoy talks, singing, film afternoons, meals together, quizzes and crafts.
Another recipient is the BRACE Dementia Research Charity Carol Service, taking place at 3pm on Sunday December 8 at the Trinity URC Church in Henleaze. This will provide an opportunity for people to come together during the festive season in what can sometimes be a lonely and isolating experience. The service not only raises awareness but also provides support for BRACE, a charity working to fund research into dementia, .
The third grant has been awarded to Singing to Remember, a structured group designed around the principles of music therapy and singing which is also hosted at Trinity URC.
The group is supported by volunteers and a paid facilitator and focuses on providing a non-judgmental, caring environment where singing has positive effects on cognition, behaviour and social interaction.
Amy Wood, of Harold Stephens, said: We’re proud to support these remarkable organisations.”
The deadline for the new round of applications is December 31. Details at https://www.haroldstephens.co.uk/community-fund