Community Action Network introduce (CAN): A pen pal scheme for young people and the isolated elderly in BCP, was devised during the first lockdown by local teenagers to tackle the loneliness that they and older people experience. We’d love to match you with a local teenager so you can enjoy writing to each other.

More info HERE

The aim is to send some “sunshine in an envelope” to older people and make their day with a letter, card or picture they receive through the post.

This is a free service to those over 65 living in the BCP area. Stamps are provided and we can arrange for someone to collect letters from those who are not able to get out of the house. We would like to include small pieces of art, poems etc so if anyone could help with making and donating these they would be very gratefully received.

The project has been developed with a group of young volunteers aged 14 – 18 with the help of experienced staff from Community Action Network. It was created in April 2020 during the first lockdown as 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 is like to feel lonely.

The young people are writing the letters and hope that you will encourage some people aged over 65 to take part. Older people can write back if they want but they don’t have to. All letters will be sent via Community Action Network and checked before being sent on. That way we know the letters received will all be positive. Addresses won’t be shared between pen pals.

This is a great project for the young people: it is a way for them to feel connected to their communities and to benefit from interaction with people from an older generation.

A referrer recently gave us this feedback: ‘My dad (86) received his first letter recently and was so animated about it.  He is now corresponding with an 18 year old who has been matched perfectly with his interests. The letter was detailed, engaging and asked lots of questions – a great project not only to help with isolation and loneliness but also breaking down some stereotypical views between young and old and vice versa.’

If you know of anyone who would like to take part, please contact Claire Pickard at ys@can100.org or complete the referral on our website: https://www.can100.org/yours-sincerely