A CHARITY that is making a huge impact on the lives of isolated older people through its fun singing sessions has just celebrated it’s fourth year of running in Frome.
The session has recently moved from the community room at Bennett’s Gardens to the beautiful new build at Keyford Heights.
Goldies, as it has become fondly known, was launched by well-known choir leader Grenville Jones in 2008 initially with four fun singing sessions in and around the Bath area. That number has grown to over 50 sessions across the West including seven new Wiltshire based sessions with Goldies CYMRU also launching in Wales. Sir Cliff Richard is the Patron.
The Frome Goldies session led by Susan Taylor runs every Wednesday from 3.00-4.00pm at Keyford Heights in Frome (BA11 1GF). Come along and join the fun, bring a friend or tell someone who you feel would benefit from such a regular social activity. The sessions are free but a voluntary donation of £1 is requested to contribute towards the session costs.
Grenville said, “We encourage people to meet up, make friends and sing the hits of the 50s, 60s and 70s – including songs from Cliff Richard, Dusty Springfield, Tom Jones and Elvis. You don’t have to be able to sing, just love to sing, and everyone is welcome. Susan is a wonderful session leader, we’re very pleased to have her on our team.”
A recent UK report produced by the ‘Campaign to End Loneliness’ estimates that over one million people over the age of 65 are often or always lonely. The Golden-Oldies charity makes opportunities for lonely people to take part in regular sessions, giving them something to look forward to and the making of new supportive friendships is greatly encouraged.
An independent study by academics at the University of Bath concluded that Goldies is good for the hundreds who take part each week. In her conclusion Dr Barbra Teater of the university said, “Participation in the Golden-Oldies enhances a participant’s health and well-being, strengthens and stimulates communities.”
Goldies brings people together for a fun session of singing, stretching, laughter and friendship. There’s even some dancing!
Over half (51%) of all people aged 75 and over live alone, like 86 year old Goldies attendee Betty Barrett, who never misses her Monday morning session in Bath. She said, “I love going to Goldies. I’d be stuck at home if I didn’t go. You just can’t keep me away!”
To find out more about attending this session or other Mendip and Somerset based sessions, please call Abby or Emma at Golden-Oldies on 01761 470006 or visit www.gold en-oldies.org.uk