Members of a club which aims to tackle social isolation are looking forward to enjoying a special treat at the seaside thanks to the generosity of a Barrhead business.
Co-op Funeral Care presented a cheque for £150 to the You, Me and a Cup of Tea group at Neilston Development Trust’s hub, The Bank recently.
The ladies who attend, meet up every Wednesday at 12.30pm at the venue to enjoy lunch, tea and a chat.
Linda Murray, Co-op Member Pioneer for the Barrhead and Neilston area, found out about the group and said she knew it would be a great cause to support.
She said: “It is so important to offer a welcoming space to help combat social isolation. Co-op Funeral Care is delighted to be able to give a donation to help charities such as this.
“The ladies are hoping to have a summer trip to Largs, so this money will help to buy them a special treat at the seaside.”
Pauline Spittal, funeral service manager for Co-op Renfrewshire, also attended the group to present the cheque.
She added: “We are thrilled to be able to support local groups such as this in the Barrhead and Neilston area.
"It was lovely to meet the ladies today and present them with their cheque.”
The sessions have been running since early 2022 and were set up after Covid to help with loneliness and isolation among older residents in the village.
They were initially started by Jennifer Carroll, NDT’s former programme coordinator, and are now run by Heather McMurdo, who says they are always happy to welcome new members.
She told the Barrhead News: “If you feel this is something that would benefit you, please come along on a Wednesday or contact the Neilston Development Trust for more information.”
Natalie Wilson, a support worker and volunteer at the group, added: “For some of our ladies, this is the only social contact they have all week.
“I think it is a wonderful idea and the group continues to grow as others find out about it.
"It offers locals the chance to get out of their house and they all enjoy coming along every week.”
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