Re-engage to hold conference in Elgin to discuss work of its groups tackling loneliness in Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey and across Moray
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GROUPS working to combat loneliness in Strathspey and Moray will hold a conference next week.
Re-engage, formerly known as Contact the Elderly, has organised the free event, which will showcase the expansion of its work planned for the region.
There are already several Re-engage groups in the area, including Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey and across Moray – with more in the pipeline.
They meet monthly to enjoy a couple of hours out over an informal Sunday afternoon tea at a local host’s property. Other activities, such as a reading group, are also planned.
Guests, who are usually over 75 and live alone, are chauffeured to and from events by a fleet of volunteer drivers.
Across Scotland more than 1000 guests regularly benefit from the tea parties which are a vital lifeline of friendship for many.
Next week’s conference event, which will be held in Elgin, will hear from Re-engage guests and some of the local volunteers who make the tea parties happen. Delegates will also learn how to refer both volunteers and older people to the charity and have the opportunity to talk to staff who work in their area.
Re-engage, head of service in Scotland, Morna O’May said: “In line with the Scottish Government's social isolation and loneliness strategy, 'A Connected Scotland', we are planning 'A Connected Moray' and aim to launch additional groups in the region to reach and link up with as many older people in need of companionship as possible.”
The conference, to be opened by Moray Council’s Buckie councillor Sonya Warren, is being held at Elgin Town Hall from 10am on October 22.
To book tickets go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-connected-moray-tickets-72054612285.
To find out more about becoming a guest of or volunteer for Re-engage contact Denise Robson at denise.robson@reengage.org.uk or on 01542 285010 or 07856 352464.
