Re-engage, the charity dedicated to ending loneliness and isolation among those aged 75 and over, is urgently seeking volunteers to help run new social groups in Birmingham. 

It already stages monthly gentle activity sessions for carpet curling and indoor bowls in Northfield and Garretts Green and is now expanding to Erdington, Sutton Coldfield and Harborne. 

The charity believes no-one is too old to make friends or enjoy social interaction. Re-engage engagement officer, Deb Meynell, said: “Our groups are fun, friendly, completely free and provide an opportunity to stay physically active.   

 “Social isolation and loneliness can take a tremendous toll on both mental and physical health, so we hope our groups will give older people something to look forward to and an opportunity to connect with others. 

“But before we can press ahead we urgently need volunteers to come forward to help run the groups. It really is rewarding and a great way to feel you are putting something back into society.”   

  Retired nurse Jane, 82, who has seven grandchildren and two great grandsons, said: “The group sessions have helped reconnect me to the outside world. The Covid years altered the structure of a normal life pattern but the sessions bring back a socially safe rhythm to each week. It’s a great way to take steps towards reconnecting with an exercise regime.”  

As well as the existing groups Re-engage is hoping to start more in West Heath, Stirchley and Ladywood. The charity’s research shows that 80% of older people taking part in the activity sessions say it has improved their wellbeing. 

If you’d like to volunteer please contact Re-engage at: https://www.reengage.org.uk/volunteer/ 

Or you can call: 0207 240 0630.”