Age Concern Merstham, Redhill and Reigate
Social Inclusion
We want to update and refurbish our centre to make it a comfortable, homely place for our members to enjoy.
About this cause
We provide a day centre three days per week, offering a hot meal, companionship, activities, information and advice on a wide range of subjects. The day centre is the hub of all our activities, we have close working relationships with the local police, citizen's advice bureau, solicitors, local Councillors and health professionals. We offer a befriending service for socially isolated older people unable to attend the centre. This service is provided by a team of volunteers, carefully matched to the clients to ensure compatibility, and we often see genuine, long lasting friendships developing. We have a Men's Shed in the garden of our centre, recognising that many men are reluctant to attend a traditional day centre, but are happy to come to a shed and work on projects with other men.
How this cause brings people in the community together
The hall is widely used by local community groups, including a children's play group, several bands, a gospel choir and as a community meeting room. The hall is also regularly used by local community members for private functions and special events, so the improvements will benefit a wide range of people. It will also benefit our charity by making the hall more appealing to potential new members.