THE local branch of Re-Engage has adapted its services during lockdown to ensure its members can enjoy a Sunday tea party and a chat.
Re-Engage is a national charity, which before the pandemic, held small monthly tea parties for elderly, lonely people.
Martin Elson, who runs the Melksham branch of the charity, said, “We all met in a host’s home, a different one each month; a lovely tea was provided by the host and afterwards, following lots of cups of tea and cake, everyone was taken home by our volunteer drivers.
“I run the Melksham charity but in Covid times, we have been unable to hold our teas. However, that does mean that our party guests have not been able to enjoy a delightful tea and a conversation with people of the same age and situation, something which is very important to them. A good chat means the world and people who first met as strangers soon become friends.
However, we all need our Sunday tea, even if we cannot meet up. So we are taking a delicious tea put together in a little box, round to everyone each month.
“Produced by Ali Wilton of “Occasional Cakes” fame, paid for by the charity, it’s an opportunity to see a friendly face, if only from afar.
“The demand for our Sunday tea parties is quite high. Most of our host’s homes cannot entertain many more than about 8 people so we are looking for another local organiser who could start up a new group in Melksham. Anybody interested, please contact Martin on 01225 707534.”
