This coming Christmas Day, my family and I are hosting an event at a local hall, which we are calling ‘Christmas Together’. Over the last few years I have become increasingly aware of how lucky we are to be able to spend Christmas as a family, when so many people spend it alone. Age UK states that over 1 million older people are dreading Christmas, as that is the time of year that they feel the most lonely. Loneliness at Christmas isn’t only an issue for older people; in a world where social events are becoming fewer and community spirit isn’t as strong as it once was, adults of all ages will find themselves spending Christmas alone or away from their families this year.

We plan to host dinner and a party for 100 people who would otherwise be spending Christmas alone. It is a chance for people to be able to meet others in the area, socialise, get out of the house and enjoy Christmas. We plan to provide a Christmas Dinner, some drinks, music, good fun, and extend people’s social circles, so that next year, they hopefully won’t need to spend Christmas alone. Many people have become reliant on social media to keep in contact with others, and we hope to give people the opportunity to talk and spend time with others face to face. 2017 will be our first year hosting the event and we are all very excited. So as not to exclude anyone, and in the spirit of Christmas, we have decided to make the event free and will give tickets to anyone who would like one while they are still available. We are relying on donations to make the event a success. Any contributions will be greatly appreciated and will help make this Christmas special for our guests.