Earlier in the year we launched our ‘Communi-Tea’ initiative. We are partnering with local groups and charities who come together to connect for a shared cause. Here at Dorset Tea we are inspired each and every day by the beauty of the county and the community who live here. We want to do what we can to give something back.
Partnering With Age UK North, South and West Dorset
Last week, we spent an afternoon with a very deserving recipient – Age UK, North, South and West Dorset. They are using our donation to help launch a new, weekly ‘tea club’ in Weymouth. They have already seen success in their established Dorchester ‘coffee club’ but wanted to grow their reach within the county. Following the covid-19 pandemic, the Dorchester club opened and proved popular as a safe place for people to come each week and enjoy a warm drink and a warm welcome, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation.
Tackling Loneliness and Isolation In Dorset
Rachel Weiss, Wellbeing Services Manager, Age UK, North, South and West Dorset, said: “Following the covid-19 pandemic, many older people in our communities felt isolated and lonely, these groups are so important for tackling loneliness, but also where people can go to find the support they need. This funding will help us to set up further groups, creating a sociable environment for people to get together and chat, as well as providing access to local services, games and more! In homage to Dorset Tea, the new ‘Tea Club’ will provide the same wonderful warm atmosphere with plenty of Tea (and Coffee!) and lots of laughs.”
We’re delighted to be supporting Age UK North, South and West Dorset, by enabling the independent charity to roll-out this amazing concept into further Dorset towns. The ‘Tea Club’ is a perfect example of why we launched the ‘Communi-Tea’ initiative, and we’re proud to support the incredible the work that Age UK carry out, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation in rural Dorset.
Not Just A Cuppa
As well as creating a sociable environment for people to get together and chat, Age UK work with other services in the community who join the events to present what is available in the local area or give information. They have been very lucky to have had great guest speakers from Citizens Advice, the Fire Service and the Police. In addition to the wonderful opportunity for attendees to learn about what is available in the area and get information they need, they focus on having fun and enjoying one another's company, with regular games sessions, including skittles and darts, host quizzes, sing-a-longs and musical bingo - which is always well-received!
A Cream Tea & Sing-A-Long
This week spent the afternoon meeting some lovely Dorset residents at a special event held in Poundbury to launch the forthcoming Weymouth tea club. Along with scones and jam (thank you to From Dorset With Love for their yummy donation) and of course plenty of Dorset Tea, there was a wonderful sing-a-long for everyone to join in with from ‘Melodies for Memories’. The theme was ‘songs from musicals’ and we’re not sure whether it was intentional but there were a lot of lyrics that referenced ‘tea’!
Nigel Bundy, Chairman of Age UK North, South and West Dorset, said on the day, "Although we are out of Covid restrictions, for many people there is still loneliness and isolation. People think that Dorset doesn't get affected by it, but it's difficult for people to go by themselves to meet people. What we are trying to do is encourage people to come and join these types of events - getting you out once a week, somewhere to meet people and make new friends - and have a nice cup of tea!"
Age UK Services
If you, or anyone you know may need a little help, we’d urge you to reach out to this friendly, approachable charity. From help around the home, support with memory loss, seated exercise classes plus free information and advice services Age UK are here for you.
Age UK North, South & West Dorset Details:
Website & Services: Age UK Dorchester| Our Services
Contact Number: 01305 269 444
Email: enquiries@ageuknswd.org.uk