A charity that provides services and activities aimed at tackling social isolation has received a boost this month – thanks to a donation from Dorset Chamber Business Partners Morebus.
PramaLife operates across Bournemouth, Christchurch, east Dorset and Poole. Its activities include dementia and age-friendly clubs, befriending, carers support groups, local community activities, and intergenerational programmes.
PramaLife has been chosen as one of the recipients of Morebus’ Community Fund – a dedicated resource for backing local causes with funding, marketing help, free travel or use of buses for events.
“This is our chance to support those living in the areas where we operate bus services,” said Morebus general manager, David Heckles. “It is important that we build strong relationships with local charities, clubs and organisations.
“Currently, one in 10 people go at least one day a week without speaking to anyone – and a third of Britons admit they deliberately catch the bus to have some human contact.
“With these worrying stats in mind, we wanted to help PramaLife with the vital work they do across our region.”
David visited one of PramaLife’s Memory Lane groups – getting involved in a sporting quiz and donating a cheque.
The groups are regular, open, friendly activities – available for people with dementia or memory loss. Members do not need to have a diagnosis of dementia to attend – and some go because they are feeling a little lonely or just want to reminisce.
“This fits in very well with our Chatty Bus initiative – which aims to tackle loneliness by encouraging people to talk to each other more,” added David. “We hope our donation helps those living in our area get together for some more interesting trips down memory lane.”