Service users say tea party was highlight of their day

Service users, who attended a tea party hosted by us recently, have said events like this are often the highlight of their day.

Supported by funding

The tea party was supported by funding from The Gannett Foundation through The Southern Daily Echo and took place at The Design Chapel in Southampton for the individuals we support.

A fantastic time

Tricia Kenyon, our Service Development Officer, said: “We had an absolutely fantastic time at our recent tea party hosted for our service users. They sang with gusto to songs played by The Splinters, a new ukulele band from Gosport, who were playing their first ever gig for us.

“There was a splendid spread of cakes baked by our volunteers and sandwiches provided by the charity’s commercial venture, CommuniBakes. We’d like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who was involved with the day, whether they performed, baked or volunteered to transport our attendees to and from the event.

“What was the real highlight was hearing the feedback from some of the ladies who attended. Hearing such positive words really warms our hearts and makes everything we’re doing worth it.”

Positive feedback

Lydia Bradley was one of the attendees at the party.

She said: “It was a wonderful, wonderful party. I need things like this to get me out, because I don’t go out much, especially in the last three years and the loneliness has been driving me mad.”

 Helping mental health

 Eunice Pfupajena, who has a severe sight impairment, which makes it difficult to go out alone, also attended the tea party.

She said: “It made my weekend, and it was the highlight of my day. When I got home, I was in a good mood all day because it really cheered me up.

 “The band was wonderful – you should have heard me singing John Denver! There was such a good atmosphere. It wasn’t boring and I could have stayed another two hours!

 “It’s so important to me to be able to attend events like this as it really helps my mental health.”