Group: Open House (Part of Community Care North Bucks)
Project: Expanding the group and reaching out to the wider community
Grant: £3,000
Fund: Healthy Ageing
Open House (Part of Community Care North Bucks) provide meetings, days out and other activities for former carers or older people who find themselves living alone for what ever reason. They aim to help them make new friends, try new activities and combat loneliness.
With a grant from the Healthy Ageing Fund, Open House were able to move to a larger, more suitable community space to host their monthly meetings. Due to growth in members, their previous location could no longer accommodate their growing membership. This new space enabled members to meet safely and comfortably, offering companionship, conversation, and a sense of belonging. The environment is not only secure but also filled with warmth, laughter, and connection. Many members experience difficulty following the loss of a loved one; the person they cared for. The social aspect of Open House has encouraged them to be social and form new friendships. The meetings are a lifeline for many who might otherwise be alone.
Each sessions aims to offer something different, including guest speakers on a variety of subjects such as online safety and local support services, to music and crafts sessions, and visits from local school students. Practical skills are shared as well as creativity and fun.
The grant also supported the much-loved ‘Going Out’ programme, monthly trips that allow members to enjoy social outings and explore new places together. By providing a minibus and volunteer drivers, the group have made these experiences accessible to members who no longer drive. The trips range from going for a coffee at a local coffee shop, to visiting art galleries and shopping centres.
Two major excursions, known as ‘Big Trips’ were also made possible with the grant. These day trips, to Hitchin Lavender Fields and the Oxford Botanical Gardens, were especially valued by members for the chance to travel, socialise, and experience something new in beautiful surroundings.
Through all of this, Open House is making a big difference to the lives of isolated individuals. They have created a caring community where everyone feels valued, supported and connected.
“I love coming here and very much enjoy the warm hospitality of Sue and her volunteers. The company is great. My experience here has greatly increased my day to day life. I look forward to the meeting with pleasure and enthusiasm.”
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