A charity working to prevent loneliness and social isolation of local older people has been given £1,000 by our South Coast region.

MHA Communities Gosport & Fareham received the funding through the Community Champions scheme, which supports grassroots charities and voluntary groups.

Graeme Cole, sales director for South Coast region, said: “Older people are particularly vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation, which can have a major impact on their health and wellbeing.

“We are all aware that this escalated through the pandemic, but thankfully charities like MHA work hard to improve the situation by creating social activities and opportunities to support local people, so we are proud to support them.”

The local MHA Communities scheme, based at Bridgemary Methodist Church, offers a variety of fulfilling social activities and services for people aged 60 and over to suit all abilities. These include befriending, lunch clubs, online activities, dance and exercise classes and assisted shopping.

Persimmon’s donation will help to fund the Gosport and Fareham group’s current programme of activities, enabling older people to live independently in their own homes for longer as well as staying connected in their local communities.

For more information visit www.mha.org.uk/communities/near-me/gosport-fareham/

The Community Champions scheme offers donations of up to £1,000 to local UK groups and charities which have already raised vital funds themselves.

To find out more or to apply, visit: www.persimmonhomes.com/community-champions