This three-year project aims to build on the strengths of citizens who are over 50 in community led actions and tackling social isolation and loneliness. The project is funded by St. Monica Trust Community Impact and helps older people form treasured relationships and make the most of their lives.
Find out more about St. Monica Trust HERE.
Over the last 18 months all of us in some ways have experienced social isolation due to Covid-19 pandemic. Older people have often been affected more than others.
We have seen the strengths of communities as people, families and neighbours have come together to support to one another such as shopping, delivering food parcels, collecting prescriptions and walking dogs especially for those being shielded.
Neighbourly actions are important to get through challenging times. Let’s uncover possibilities and opportunities within you and your community around you. That’s how you cultivate resilience and power within the community.
Souper Natter evolved from a conversation in September 2021 with Turnberries Community Centre in Thornbury. A large local ageing population had been impacted during the Covid pandemic, suffering bereavements and job losses, and Turnberries wanted to create a social space for people to reconnect and build confidence.
Thornbury Job Centre helped to promote the group – alongside an online neighbourhood app - and recruit volunteers to run it.
One volunteer suggested sharing vegetables harvested from her allotment to cook soup with others, and the “Souper Natter” event was born.
Promotional flyer design and distribution was carried out by one volunteer, whilst another - a local sixth form college student - set up a social media page and managed the contacts.
Most of the volunteers are retired or having a career break and they all shared a common passion to give something back to the community and get to know neighbours by offering a social space for people who are lonely or social isolated in Thornbury.
So far 5 events have been held successfully, and volunteers are still working behind the scenes to bring more events to the community.
'How can you create welcoming communities for older people?' Share your stories
Everyone has a story to tell and your stories that matter to you will resonate, inspire others and bring people together. Stories help us share our sense of individual identity, our understanding and sense of belonging in a place where you live. So why not share your story?
