Dozens of older residents across Wokingham were able to celebrate Christmas Day in company this year thanks to the kindness of local volunteers and the Link Visiting Scheme.
Around 70 guests enjoyed a festive two-course Christmas lunch at the Wade Day Centre, with a further 50 meals delivered to people at home who would otherwise have spent the day alone.
The event — now in its 14th year — was organised by the Wokingham-based Link Visiting Scheme, which supports older people experiencing isolation and loneliness.
Chief Executive Marjie Walker said the charity had been “overwhelmed” by the number of volunteers wanting to give up their Christmas Day to help others.
“Christmas can be tricky for all sorts of people, not just older people,”
said Marjie.
“I think people appreciate doing something meaningful and coming together to support others at what can be a difficult time of year.”
She explained that while many people spend Christmas surrounded by family and friends, others may now be widowed, living alone or unable to get out to socialise.
“For a lot of older people, Christmas can feel like a very lonely day,” she added.
“Being able to bring people together makes such a difference.”
‘The most magical day’
One of the volunteers helping welcome guests was Claire Garner, who returned after assisting at last year’s lunch.
“I decided one Christmas that it meant more to me to do something good and give something back,” she said.
“It’s the most magical, wonderful day. Seeing people who might otherwise be alone laughing, chatting and enjoying themselves really makes me feel happy.”
The Wade Day Centre was decorated for the occasion and guests enjoyed food, conversation and companionship — with volunteers on hand to host tables, serve meals and chat with attendees.
About the Link Visiting Scheme
Founded in 1998, the Link Visiting Scheme is a local charity working to reduce loneliness among older people across Wokingham Borough.
The charity runs:
⭐ One-to-one befriending
⭐ Friendship groups
⭐ Community activities & projects
⭐ Support sessions and wellbeing initiatives
⭐ Specialist programmes such as Community Kitchen and Link to Nature
⭐ And even Christmas Day celebrations — so no-one has to feel forgotten
Loneliness is increasingly recognised as a major health concern, linked to poorer physical and mental health outcomes and even reduced life expectancy. Link Visiting Scheme supports hundreds of people every year, offering companionship, conversation and connection.
Their message is simple: friendship changes lives.
A heartfelt thank you ❤️
Events like this simply wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of the local community — and the volunteers who gave up their Christmas Day to spread kindness, warmth and festive cheer.
What a brilliant example of Wokingham at its best.
Go to Link https://www.linkvisiting.org/
Well Done to all involved who helped to make Christmas special for so many. Sue and the team at Wokingham in Need xx