How “Friendly Bench” and “Together Project” Fight the Xmas Loneliness Blues

Christmas can be the loneliest time of the year for many – especially those who recently lost a loved one. But social enterprises across Britain have made it their goal to make Christmas a little more cheerful for everyone.

The country is facing what is referred to as a loneliness epidemic – impacting one in twenty people according to the Office of National Statistics. But many companies are stepping in with the aim to do good, such as the Together Project: the social enterprise is using positive social interactions this Christmas to boost the spirits of the elderly in care homes. The gatherings also benefit children and lonely parents, too.

“Having children and parents come in and laugh together, move, sing Christmas songs can be so beneficial,” says Louise Goulden, founder of the Together Project, which has spread to over 20 care homes across the country. “The effect of the sessions … lifts the mood of the home for the rest of the day and is even an anchor point for the rest of their week.”

Another example of a social enterprise that focuses on bringing forward happiness and a sense of belonging is called the Friendly Bench, a concept consisting of an outdoor seating area where people can sit and chat if they feel lonely. Volunteers from the village of Bottesford are knocking on doors this Christmas, handing out mince pies and inviting people to a gathering to socialize and get away from their feelings of isolation.