Stunell appeals to Stockport residents to tackle loneliness this Christmas

12.58.32pm GMT Wed 7th Dec 2005

Local MP, Andrew Stunell is encouraging local people to come together to tackle loneliness this Christmas in support of the Women's Royal Voluntary Service's Be a Star campaign.

Hazel Grove MP, Andrew Stunell said:

"Around five thousand older people in Stockport are likely to be alone this Christmas. Feeling isolated and lonely at this time of year can be particularly hard when everyone around you seems to be having fun.

"I am appealing for local people to use their time to help reduce loneliness in their community this Christmas season. You could get in touch with an older friend, relative or neighbour who might be alone, go round for a mince pie and a chat, or even invite them to Christmas dinner."

The Women's Royal Voluntary Service runs community centres, provides Meals on Wheels, home visits, transport and other services for older people, helping them to keep in touch with people and avoid loneliness. They are asking people to 'Be a Star' by helping to bring older people some Christmas cheer this winter. Mr Stunell is one of 96 MPs who have backed their campaign in Parliament. ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. More details of the campaign can be found out at http://www.wrvs.org.uk

2. The text of the Parliamentary Motion is: That this House notes that over a million older people are likely to be alone this Christmas; is aware that nearly 2.5 million over 60s have no close friends living nearby and go weeks without seeing a friend or relative; recognises that loneliness and isolation radically reduce quality of life for many older people; commends the outstanding work being done by volunteers all over the UK to provide older people with opportunities to keep in touch with their community; and applauds the work being done by WRVS with its Be a Star campaign to get more people to do something about loneliness this Christmas.