Young volunteers in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have devised a creative way to tackle loneliness amongst older people and stay involved in the community with the launch of a new pen pal service. Supported by Community Action Network, the Yours Sincerely service aims to bring ‘sunshine in an envelope’ to the over 65s, with letters, cards and pictures sent through the post.
Originally set up in April to reach older people isolated at home during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheme was developed by young people aged 14-18 who were themselves facing isolation and loneliness in lockdown.
17-year old Charmaine was involved in developing the project, and explains: ‘We wanted to do something to help people who weren’t able to get out as much, and let them know we care. We decided to create a pen pal scheme as we also know what it’s like to feel lonely.’
Freya, 18, added: ‘Working on this project has become the highlight of my week as I get to work with new-found friends who want to make a difference like I do. It feels great to be a part of something like this. I can’t wait for when this is all over and I can meet the friends I have made spanning across generations in person.’
The free service is managed by Community Action Network (CAN) with the support of charities the Jolly Postal Service and Truth Be Told. Letters are sent via CAN, who forward them onto their pen pal.
One older pen pal said that his first letter was ‘a breath of fresh air’.
Dani Ford-Horne, Youth Development Worker at CAN, said: ‘This is a great project for young people, some of whom were out of school for several months during the first COVID-19 lockdown and are now coping with the challenges of education under a second lockdown. It’s a way for them to feel connected to their communities and to benefit from interaction with people from an older generation.’
If you or someone you know would like to receive letters as part Yours Sincerely, contact CAN by emailing ys@can100.org, calling 01202 466130 or writing to Yours Sincerely, Community Action Network, Boscombe Link 3-5 Palmerston Road, Bournemouth BH1 4HN. Older participants can sign up as an individual or a couple (including carers or family members).