Christmas day lunch for lonely people in Bristol – call for guests to attend

A Bristol-based charity which works to combat loneliness will be hosting Christmas day lunches for people from Bristol & South Gloucestershire who would otherwise be on their own.

Marmalade Trust have spaces for guests at this special lunch, which will be held in venues around Bristol. The charity will be providing a sit-down Christmas lunch specifically for people who would otherwise be on their own, and particularly older people in the city. The charity is calling for people across the city to get in touch if they or someone they know will be on their own this Christmas.

Amy Perrin, Founder of Marmalade Trust said: "Christmas day can be particularly tough if you are on your own. Sadly there are a lot of people living in the city who are experiencing loneliness and social isolation and there are very few options for them to enjoy Christmas day with other people. Following on from the success of our Christmas day lunches last year, we are hoping to reach even more people this year.”

Marmalade Trust works with local volunteers who collect guests from home, take them to a Christmas day meal in a local pub or restaurant, and then return them home afterwards. It’s a great opportunity for people to make new friends, and the charity fundraise for the meals – enabling every guest to be invited as a friend.

Roger, a previous guest said: “The company of people and the meal put together made my day. An inspired occasion put on by inspired young people.”

In order to be eligible to attend one of the lunches, guests must be:

• Otherwise be on their own on Christmas day
• Living in Bristol, South Gloucestershire or surrounding areas

Spaces must be booked in advance by calling 07566 244788

The charity relies on volunteers to make this event so special, and this year they are also calling for local people who have a few hours to spare to support at the events on the day. if you would like more information please call a volunteer on 07566 244788.

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For media enquiries and to arrange an interview email Becky on pa@marmaladetrust.org