Abbots Care launches its ‘Tea, Time and Togetherness’ campaign

One of Hertfordshire’s leading homecare providers, Abbots Care, is calling for local volunteers to join its ‘Tea, Time, and Togetherness’ campaign, which aims to deliver 100 hours of companionship to people who may be alone or isolated over the Christmas period. 

The campaign provides additional free hours of support to vulnerable people in the community, delivered by Abbots Care office staff, care workers, and volunteers. These visits offer simple but meaningful moments of company for people who may only have limited contact with others during the festive season. 

Abbots Care runs the Tea, Time, and Togetherness campaign through their not-for-profit sister organisation, Abbots Friends. Earlier this year, Abbots Care received the Reducing Social Isolation Award at the Stars of Social Care Awards* in recognition of its work uniting staff and volunteers to bring companionship to people who need it most. 

The impact of the campaign is already clear. Abbots Friends hosts regular community tea parties where people meet to chat, paint, play games, and connect with others. Volunteers also carry out individual companionship visits across the county, providing practical support and comfort to those who might otherwise be facing the winter months alone. 

A report by Age UK found that nine in 10 older people who often feel lonely also experience unhappiness or low mood. Without further action, the number of people over 65 who regularly feel lonely in England is expected to reach 1.2 million by 2034. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that loneliness also affects younger people, with 40 percent of those aged 16 to 29 reporting that they feel lonely often or some of the time.

Abbots Care CEO, Camille Leavold MBE, who is pictured above, explains: “Christmas is a time many people look forward to, but it can also highlight how isolating the winter months can be. A short visit or shared moment of company can change someone’s week. Loneliness affects people of all ages, and volunteering can bring friendship, confidence and connection to everyone involved. 

“Our focus this winter is Tea, Time, and Togetherness. We want to bring comfort to those who need it most and we are encouraging people in Hertfordshire to join us in giving the gift of company this Christmas. Last year’s feedback from those who took part was incredibly moving, and we hope to build on that.” 

Abbots Care is inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to volunteer. No previous experience is required and full support is provided. 

For further information on how to volunteer for the companion service, visit the webpage, or email Abbots Care at [email protected] or call 0330 094 5511. 

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