Supported by a network of volunteers, Contact the Elderly organises monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for small groups of older people aged 75 and over who live alone, offering a regular and vital friendship link every month.  

We have two groups in Minehead and need a few more volunteers to help elderly isolated people in our community – a little time really can make a lasting difference.

* Driver - once a month on a Sunday afternoon. Tea parties last two hours, plus travel time. Will need to be DBS checked, which we can arrange

* Reserve Driver – a few times a year on a Sunday afternoon.  Will need to be DBS checked, which we can arrange.

* Host – once or twice a year, welcome the group to your home for afternoon tea. Downstairs toilet and no more than three steps access required.

There are usually six to eight older guests in a group, and we are currently reaching out to find those people who would benefit from the free monthly tea parties.

Do you know someone who is approximately 75 or over, perhaps finds it more difficult to get out and about, and who would like something special to look forward to on a Sunday?

For more details about volunteering for the local groups, or getting involved as a guest, please contact either myself on 01643 841276 or 07826 702958 or at [email protected], or our area organiser Fiona Franklin on 01934 316578 or at fiona. [email protected]. Or you can visit our website at www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk

Christine Payne, Co-ordinator for Minehead,Exmoor and the Quantocks, Contact the Elderly.