Swindon

An informal, friendly meet up where we offer support, information and friendly chat.

The local newsletter keeps members informed of the scheme’s latest news, upcoming events and activities, welfare initiatives and other community services that may be of interest.

Chat and check is a shorter conversation (usually monthly) to provide a reassuring regular contact. This is a popular service for those who appreciate light touch support and can also be a steppingstone into befriending.

Face to face befriending is one of our most popular services, befriending is exactly what it sounds like – getting people together to make friends. Many older people living in their own homes can become isolated and lonely, but with a regular weekly visit - perhaps to read the paper to a visually impaired person, or to play cards or accompany a member with their grocery shop - MHA Communities can help stop this from happening. Our trained volunteer befrienders are matched with scheme members based on their interests and personalities by their local scheme manager.

Our lunch clubs offer a chance to get out of the house, have a hot, balanced meal - and not have to do the washing up! Lunch clubs are a great way to catch up with friends or to meet new people for a friendly chat. Sometimes our clubs invite guest speakers, and there may be opportunities to play games but there’s no obligation to join in!