Did you know loneliness is as harmful for you as smoking 15 cigarettes a day?

Scary isn't it?

Sadly, many of the elderly in our community are often alone and feel forgotton about. With a city that is constantly changing and so highly populated, they still find themselves isolated and longing for some comapany and interaction. This makes no sence and is heart breaking.  

Well, that is why North London Cares is amazing!!! They are a small (but totally incredible) charity that tackle isolation and loneliness to help reconnect the young and elderly within the community.

They do all sorts of amazing work, for example organising Film nights in community centres, because watching a film alone just isn't the same as the interaction and enjoyment of having someone there.

I have been volunteering with them for a little while now so when asked if I would join them on the Thames path challenge the only word that could possibly come out my mouth was YES!

I began volunteering as I felt I wanted to give something back. I have since been to a yarn dance (and got taught a few moves by some of my lovely elderly neighbours!), cooked with a group of amazing, interesting women, and done a touch of gardening for a lady in need of a little help bringing the sparkle back.

One thing I have learnt from North London Cares, is that what seems like the simplest gesture for us, can mean the world to an elderly neighbour. Sitting down with a cup of tea and having a chat can lift their spirits. Giving just a few hours of your time to cook, chat, laugh with them, can make a huge impact. Showing them they are not forgotton.

So...

Let me give you a little idea of where your very kind donations can lead...

£20 will enable NLC to host a film night at a centre.

£40 will pay for a cooking session for 10 isolated people.

£150 could provide transportation for 14 elderly neighbours otherwise unable to attend an NLC social club!

Remember we all grow older, and those of us who are lucky enough to know and see our elderly grandparents, neighbours, friends, will understand how much difference a chat over a cup of tea can make to them.

Please donate what you can, little or large, as every penny really does help to such an amazing charity and to the people who's lives they touch every day.

Thankyou SO much for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.