Meadowhall has once again teamed up with local schoolchildren to spread kindness this Christmas, partnering with pupils from schools across Sheffield to hand-write festive cards for Age UK Sheffield to share with older members of the community.
The initiative forms part of Meadowhall’s ongoing work with Age UK Sheffield to bring people together over the festive period and help address loneliness and isolation. It follows new research commissioned by Meadowhall alongside the Mental Health Foundation, which found that almost half of people in Sheffield experience feelings of loneliness at Christmas, with many unsure where to turn for support.
This week, the centre hosted a special festive Tea Dance, welcoming its regular attendees alongside pupils from Limpsfield Junior School. The event gave children the chance to personally deliver their Christmas cards while joining older members of the community for a morning of dancing, live music and conversation.
Meadowhall’s Tea Dances take place weekly and are open to older people in the community, offering free tea or coffee and a friendly space to meet others and enjoy time together.
Darren Pearce, Centre Director at Meadowhall, said Christmas can be a difficult time for some people, adding that the Tea Dances help create a strong sense of community. He thanked the pupils at Limpsfield Junior School for helping make this year’s event memorable and for bringing smiles through their handwritten cards.
Age UK Sheffield welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of raising awareness around loneliness and the value of intergenerational events in helping older people feel connected and supported during the festive season.
As part of the partnership, Meadowhall will also be donating advertising space to Age UK Sheffield throughout the festive period. The charity’s messages will appear across digital screens, social media and the centre’s website, helping to signpost support services and encourage donations.
