Older people in north Norfolk will feel less isolated thanks to Norfolk Freemasons
Around 85 older people per week in the area around Sheringham will feel less isolated and take part in a variety of engaging activities thanks to a grant to Age Concern North Norfolk from Norfolk Freemasons.
A £15,000 grant over three years will support those older people who find themselves isolated because of the loss of a partner, geographical remoteness or an inability to use modern communications technology. Age Concern North Norfolk’s efforts are particularly focused on individuals who live alone and face challenges in meeting their basic needs for hygiene and nutrition, a situation that has been exacerbated by recent global challenges including the pandemic and the cost of living crisis.
Age Concern North Norfolk offers a daily sanctuary of care, companionship and support. Their services are diverse and tailored to the needs of the community’s older residents, featuring engaging activities such as alpaca visits, lunch clubs, light exercise classes and music and song sessions. Practical support extends to dementia care, medication assistance, bathing and laundry services and a critical befriending call service. For those unable to attend in person, the charity also offers a ‘meals on heels’ service, ensuring no one is left behind.
Feedback from the community underscores the charity’s impact, with many beneficiaries sharing stories of newfound friendship and support in the face of loss and isolation. A local councillor has praised Age Concern North Norfolk as ‘a vital resource for the community’s social care provision,’ highlighting its integral role in the wellbeing of the area’s older population.
The grant from Norfolk Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation.
Anneliese Maerz Centre Manager at Age Concern North Norfolk said:
‘Thanks to the generous support of Norfolk Freemasons, we’re able to continue to support older people in Norfolk. Our beneficiaries are very grateful for the support and look forward to their sessions. The community has seen a positive impact and has meant that their wellbeing has continued to improve as a result.’
Paul Hooton The Chair of the Norfolk Freemasons Charitable Fund said:
‘I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help Age Concern North Norfolk and support the important work they are doing in our community. Loneliness has been shown to have a detrimenal effect on an individual’s health, and this local charity is doing a wonderful job in making contact with people who often do not get to have contact with others.’