More than 300 people attended a fair I hosted to help tackle loneliness and isolation.
We welcomed over 25 exhibitors, including charities, local and national groups which support senior citizens, ranging from hobby/pastime groups, health and lifestyle charities, and advice agencies. The fair, which was kindly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Fareham Meon, lasted until 5pm at St. John the Evangelist Church Hall.
Attending the event were local groups such as the Men’s Shed, Fareham Women’s Institute, and the Rotary Club. A number of charities that support older people also attended the event, including Parkinson UK, Cancer Research UK, Age UK and Diabetes groups.
Senior citizens also had the opportunity to enjoy coffee, cake and a chat with me, we watched an over 50s Zumba class instructed by Pauline Grant and live music by local musician Ian Ash on the main stage.
The fair was a massive success. It was clear from the turnout that there is a great deal of interest from people in the different types of services available to older people in Fareham.
All too often when people become older they find it difficult to stay connected with the community around them, resulting in loneliness and isolation. The fair was a great way of showing that there are excellent services for older people – whether that means social, health, and lifestyle groups and charities – right here in Fareham.
I hope that residents who attended the fair will now be able to join new groups, meet new friends and discover what’s on offer right here in their own community.
Thank you to everyone who came, and all of the charities and organisations which helped to make it such a success.