The charity Ilkley Good Neighbours brought festive cheer to its clients when it welcomed over 90 of them to some special Christmas lunches.
Held at the Audley Clevedon Restaurant in Ben Rhydding, the three lunches brought together clients and charity volunteers, providing a setting where the guests could meet others and get a sense of connection and belonging at a special time of the year.
The lunches, held annually, were designed to bring clients together, alleviate loneliness, and provide a warm and welcoming space where they could socialise during the holiday season.
Charity Trustee Anita Dunford said:
“The events are always popular and are made possible through the efforts of the charity’s project coordinators and dedicated volunteers, along with the unwavering support of the local community and Ilkley Round Table, whose generous donations help fund the festivities.
“The hard work of everyone involved, from the Ilkley Community Bus drivers who transport the elderly clients to the events to the charity team who make sure they enjoy themselves, shows how a community can come together at an often challenging time and support its older residents.
“We feel that our annual lunches go beyond festive celebrations; they’re part of Ilkley Good Neighbours’ mission to combat loneliness and social isolation among older members in the community. The holidays can be difficult for those living alone and our lunches are an opportunity for clients to come together, enjoy a meal, and celebrate the season in the company of others. Many tell us how much they really look forward to the event.”
One of the clients, Mrs Glenda Eydmann, said:
“The Good Neighbours Christmas lunch is one of the highlights of my year. I live alone, and it allows me to meet others, enjoy a laugh, and have a meal in good company”.
The charity’s team also recognises the effect the lunches have on them. One long-standing volunteer Margaret Meara said:
“Being part of it is incredibly rewarding. It’s heart warming to see everyone enjoying themselves, and it reminds us all of the importance of kindness and togetherness, especially at this time of year.”
Currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, Ilkley and District Good Neighbours provides help to the community in a number of key ways, including a one-to-one Befriending service, Shop Assist, support for possible sufferers and their families with its Dementia Hub and Café, and weekly friendship groups, as well as a range of social events from trips to the pantomime to days out in the Yorkshire Dales.
The charity welcomes support from individuals and businesses who would like to help, whether as volunteers, donating resources, or sponsoring events. For further information contact 01943 609906 or email:team@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk