In a couple of weekends time I'll be running the Berlin Marathon and I hope in doing so I'll be able to raise awareness about social isolation and loneliness that exists in our society, particularly among elderly people.

Often elderly people out-live their partners and friends, have no close family members, or their children choose to move away. It means the latter years of life can become very lonely which in turn leads to wider mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and just the general feeling of worthlessness or being unloved. This is not a pleasant way to spend your final years.

The Marmalade Trust is a local Bristol charity that organises events for elderly people who would simply like some company. The charity's biggest event is their brilliant Christmas dinner which has grown to 60 oldies this year! All the guests get presents, food and play party games but most of all enjoy having other people to talk to. The guests would otherwise spend Christmas alone with the TV probably being their only sense of interaction with society.

In previous years the guests have made new friends, gained confidence and even improved their health and happiness. The Marmalade Trusts Christmas event has only been made possible through generous donations. If you'd like to help keep this event going and others taking place during the year then please do donate :)

Finally, whilst you're tucking into your Turkey this Christmas, spare a thought for those people who aren't so lucky and will be spending this Christmas alone. 

(And also have a chuckle over me entertaining 60 pensioners for the day!)

👴🏻👵🏻💛