There are many older people living in Islington who rarely get out or see someone just to have a chat with. Our befriending volunteers visit people in their own homes and sit and chat for an hour each week. This social activity is greatly welcomed by our members and is the cornerstone of our work throughout the year.

At Christmas we try to make a special effort for our members as this can be an especially lonely time. We put together special hampers for some of our members, and others come out to our Christmas lunch at a local centre. We are hoping this year that we will be able to give everyone a present as well.

One of our members, Terence, says: I like the company and to know that somebody has an interest in you. In London you can be very lonely, people don't go out of the way to be friendly.'

Just £20 would fill a hamper. £50 would feed two guests at our lunch. £200 will help us recruit and match a befrieding volunteer with an older person.