More than 1 Million Older People Face Christmas Alone – Cherishers 811 CIC Offers an Alternative with A Free Festive Meal in Rugeley
According to research by Age UK, 1.4 million older people in the UK will eat dinner alone on Christmas Day, and around 1 million older people say they feel more isolated at Christmas than at any other time of the year. Against this backdrop of rising loneliness and seasonal hardship, Cherishers 811 CIC is once again stepping forward to ensure that no one in the community has to face Christmas alone.
This Christmas Day, Cherishers will host a free festive meal at the Cherishers Wellbeing Room, 19–23 Upper Brook Street, Rugeley, WS15 2DP, running from 2pm to 4pm and followed by games and activities designed to bring people together. The event is open to anyone who would otherwise be spending the day alone — including older residents, the recently bereaved, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those facing isolation at what should be the most connected time of the year. Free local transport can also be arranged for attendees who need help travelling to the venue. To reserve a place, residents are invited to call 01889 578822 or email office@cherishers.co.uk.
Since the initiative began in 2017, Cherishers has welcomed more than 500 guests, providing not only a warm meal but meaningful social connection for people who may have nowhere else to go. With loneliness shown to increase the risk of depression, anxiety, dementia, heart disease and other serious health concerns, community-led interventions of this kind provide vital support at a time of year when isolation is often most acutely felt.
“Christmas is a time for compassion and giving back. At Cherishers, we see the real impact that loneliness and hardship have on people’s lives. Our Christmas Day meal is about more than food — it’s about reminding people they are valued, seen and part of a community that cares. This is our way of giving back and making a difference where it’s needed most.” — Julie Edensor, CEO of Cherishers 811 CIC
About Cherishers 811 CIC
Cherishers 811 CIC is a community interest company based in Rugeley, Staffordshire, dedicated to supporting vulnerable and isolated individuals through wellbeing services, practical outreach and inclusive community initiatives. The organisation works to ensure everyone feels valued, supported and connected.