The Edinburgh-based charity, Vintage Vibes, is launching a campaign urging people in the capital to spread joy amongst those at risk of loneliness and social isolation this Christmas.
The charity supports people older than 60 to become more socially connected and active in their local communities by creating long-lasting friendships, and is asking people to spread some festive cheer simply by adding one more name to their Christmas card list.
The Vintage Vibes Christmas Card Campaign gives people the opportunity to write a personalised card to someone that lives on their own after receiving a profile which details who the recipient is and what their interests are – from Norma who loves history to David who loves computer games.
Now in its eighth year, the campaign is open to both individuals and workplaces, with Vintage Vibes hoping that 2025 will be a record breaking year. As an organisation witnessing more and more isolated people seeking their service, Vintage Vibes hope to bring festive joy to those with the TV as their main form of company this winter, whilst raising much-needed funds during a city-wide charity funding crisis.
Taking part costs just £3, with all money used to help tackle loneliness in Edinburgh. Participants can also opt to treat an older person to tea and cake in a local cafe, a ticket to see a show at the theatre or film at the cinema, or a fabulous Christmas lunch if they wish.
Georgia Artus, Director of Vintage Vibes, said: “We are proud that this campaign has become a fun and meaningful part of many local people’s Christmas traditions. We hear every year from vulnerable, isolated older people within our community about the impact the cards have during a very difficult time of year – from VIPs (older people) who have carefully kept every card they have received, to those who keep them up until Easter! The cards bring warmth, care and connection at the time when our VIPs can feel most alone and we are grateful to every single person who takes part.”
Among those to benefit from the campaign last year is Robin, 94, who has kept every one of the cards he has received, who recently took part in the Vintage Vibes “Ten Years Bold campaign”. The campaign, launched to celebrate the charity’s tenth anniversary, aims to challenge stigma around ageing through celebrating incredible older people while raising vital funds.
Marlene, who loves her dog and anything sparkly said: “I love Vintage Vibes because I get to meet people. At Christmas, looking at the children’s drawings and the things they have written in the cards, I feel honoured, that’s the word, honoured. The cheerier the cards, the better I feel.”
Paddy, who was a champion go-carter, said: “Vintage Vibes is almost like having another family. Getting the Christmas cards helps people feel remembered.”
Emma, Vintage Vibes Friendships Coordinator, said: “Loneliness isn’t just at Christmas, day to day the team see and hear stories where people are experiencing chronic isolation and loneliness. Being part of Vintage Vibes makes a huge difference.”
To take part in the Christmas Card campaign, CLICK HERE and pop your card in the post to Vintage Vibes by 4 December.
