'Lifeline' charity tackling loneliness under threat

8 hours ago

Charlotte HallLocal Democracy Reporting Service

News image — Jackie Dutton, 64, and Gail Barrett, 77 said they would be "very upset" to see the group disbanded

LDRS Two women with short grey hair. — Jackie Dutton, 64, and Gail Barrett, 77 said they would be "very upset" to see the group disbanded

A community group that has puts on activities to help tackle loneliness in Greater Manchester for 22 years has said it could face of closure due to funding issues.

Lower Kersal Young People and Community Group, in Salford, provides regular activities, including film screenings and mini golf, to help the elderly find company and young people access activities they cannot usually afford.

But after failing to secure a National Lottery funding grant, the charity said it would run out of money by September, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reports.

"We'd be very upset if this goes," said Gail Barrett, 77, who attended one of the group's coffee mornings at St Aidan's Church.

"It is a lifeline for people especially those on their own. There's nothing else like this."

The group also has allotment sessions, hosts a line dancing class for the elderly, and organises outings and activities such as cooking classes for people of all ages, including people with special educational needs.

LDRS A woman with a black graphic t-shirt with a picture of a pineapple on it. She is wearing a cap and smiling. — Jane Wilson, 67, a retired nurse, has been coming to the group's "fantastic" coffee mornings for just under a year

One community group regular, a full-time carer for her daughter, said even though they were constantly together, the caring responsibilities can leave her feeling "cut-off from the outside world".

"Without this, you're isolated. I'm in a really dark place at the moment, but in here I know I'm okay," she said.

LDRS woman in a yellow t-shirt with grey hair and glasses. — One user of the charity said the get-togethers stopped people from "being stuck in your own head"

Volunteers and visitors said it would be "devastating" if the group were to close.

Sean Massey, who manages the organisation, said: "We've been getting little bits to survive, but if we don't get anything soon, September might be our last month.

"That would mean everything goes.

"In September as well, the rent for our building is due to double from £8,000 to £16,000."

LDRS A man in a polo top with short dark hair and a beard. — Sean Massey is the manager of the Lower Kersal Young People and Community Group

"It would be devastating," Massey added. "A lot of people who live here are isolated.

"On top of the coffee morning, there are young people who are out of work for mental health or physical reasons, and this is the only place they meet people and get support."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.