We are delighted to announce the first recipients of our community fund grants, awarded to organisations making a difference to social isolation and loneliness in older residents in North-West Bristol.

The grants, which are aimed at helping to foster social connections and enriching the lives of local older people, have been awarded to three standout initiatives: Footprints Seniors Group at Ebenezer Church in Horfield, BRACE Charity’s Carol Service, and ‘Singing to Remember’ at Trinity Henleaze United Reformed Church.

The first grant was awarded to Senior Footprints Group, a weekly term-time get together attended by around of 35 – 45 people ranging from age 60 to 96! The group is open to all - carers included - and it provides a safe and accessible space for participants to enjoy talks, singing, film afternoons, meals together, quizzes and crafts.

We were so pleased to hear about this brilliant local group and thrilled to award a grant which will cover catering costs to include a Harvest and Christmas meal for the group to enjoy together.

Another recipient is the BRACE Dementia Research Charity Carol Service, taking place on Sunday 8th December, will provide an opportunity for people to come together during the festive season in what can sometimes be a lonely and isolating experience. The service not only raises awareness but also provides much-needed support for BRACE, a charity working tirelessly to fund research into dementia, a condition affecting so many families.

The third grant has been awarded to Singing to Remember, a structured group designed around the principles of music therapy and singing which is hosted at Trinity Henleaze United Reformed Church.

The group is supported by a team of volunteers and a paid facilitator and focuses on providing a non-judgmental, caring environment where singing has positive effects on cognition, behaviour and social interaction.

"We’re proud to support these remarkable organisations," said Amy Wood, responsible for Community Engagement for Harold Stephens. "Each plays a vital role in making North-West Bristol a supportive and vibrant community. Through our community fund, we hope to continue to make a meaningful impact, and we can’t wait to receive the next round of applications.”

The Harold Stephens Community Fund was created to support local groups helping to reach the socially isolated and provide opportunities for more social connections. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these grants will bring to the community, and we would like to encourage local groups to apply for future funding opportunities.

The deadline for the current round of applications is 31st December 2024. For full details about the Community Fund, see our website: https://www.haroldstephens.co.uk/community-fund