Tea and cake lovers in the Renfrewshire area are being urged get in touch with local charity Contact the Elderly.

 

The charity provides free monthly Sunday afternoon tea parties for those aged 70 and over has been described by some as a social lifeline for those who are not often presented with opportunities to get out and meet people.

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Caroline McGinlay, Scotland Support Volunteer Officer said:

“I am confident there are many people in Paisley, Renfrew, Erskine, Bishopton and Inchinnan and beyond who could benefit from these terrific tea parties. It’s just letting them know we’re here that’s the tricky bit!

 

“We hope spreading the word will encourage both guests and volunteers to get in touch. The charity is based on such a lovely idea and the time you need to donate is very modest but has an immeasurable impact on guests. Our volunteers all really enjoy themselves as well.”

 

A volunteer host welcomes a small group of around six guests and four drivers once or twice a year. They need to have no more than a few stairs to climb to their home, and a downstairs toilet.

 

Drivers tend to collect the same guest or guests from their home and also join them for afternoon tea each month leading to strong relationships being built over time.

 

Across Scotland, Contact the Elderly supports 764 people through its network of 1,035 volunteers.

To find out how you can volunteer with Contact the Elderly or become a guest, please get in touch with Caroline McGinlay, Scotland Support Volunteer Officer via 0141 812 1555 or

caroline.mcginlay@contact-the-elderly.org.uk

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Founder of Paisley.org.uk in 1998 and constantly strives to change peoples attitudes to the town, Brian is a self described Paisley Digital Champion who promotes Paisley via any means necessary. You can also follow me on X