Community project combatting social isolation celebrates first birthday
A community project helping combat loneliness has been labelled a “dream come true” as it celebrates its first birthday.
Along with this partners, social housing association Trent & Dove helped hold a party to mark the first anniversary of the popular Branston Places of Welcome coffee morning, which offers free cake and refreshments and a place to socialise.
The birthday party included delicious homemade confectionery, a birthday cake complete with candles, party hats, and even a game of pass the parcel.
Individuals who attended the birthday party expressed how the coffee morning has positively impacted their lives over the past year. From rekindling old friendships to making entirely new connections, it has radiated happiness and comfort for the community.
Made possible thanks to a partnership between Branston Town Council, Branston Scout HQ, Strengthening Communities, and the Diocese of Lichfield, this inspiring project contributes to reducing loneliness and supporting volunteers in making a difference in their community.
Branston POW volunteer Angie Cresswell
Trent & Dove’s Customer Experience Officer Alan Ball said:
“If anybody wanted an example of what community is, this is it. And it is all credit to the people who come here.
“There is no agenda to this coffee morning. It has just taken off.”
With the help of a handful of volunteers, the coffee morning has made a positive impact on the Branston community.
Branston Town Council sees this as a “dream come true”. For some residents, this is their only activity outside their home in the week, so this is a ‘vital lifeline’ for them.
Trent & Dove volunteer Angela Cresswell said:
“I was determined to make this a big celebration because getting any people together is a gift, but to get so many enthusiastic people who love every minute of it fills your cup up.
“I put a lot into this, but I also I get so much back. Don’t think for one minute that I don’t get as much from these people as I give them.”
For some, it has been life-changing. Volunteer Tanya started volunteering at the Branston coffee morning after losing her mother.
She said:
“If someone wanted to volunteer here, I would say bite the bullet and go, as it has helped my anxiety and it has done me a power of good.
“The customers here have said how it has changed me from where I started to where I am now. I have not looked back.”
Branston Places of Welcome coffee morning runs from 10am to 12pm every Wednesday at Branston Scout HQ, on Main Street, Branston, DE14 3EY.