Newham’s borough wide campaign ‘We are Together at Christmas’ has featured a series of Christmas light ‘Switch Ons’ and Newham ‘Big Christmas Lunch Week’ events – which have seen residents celebrating with fun, food, entertainment and goody bags.
The Council hosted ten lunches for residents in our Town Halls and Community Centres, for the Newham Big Christmas, focusing on residents who may face isolation and loneliness at this time of year.
Councillor Charlene McLean, Cabinet member for Resident Experience and Engagement said: “I had the great pleasure of attending the first Civic Elders lunch at Stratford Town Hall this week, where residents enjoyed a slap-up Christmas lunch, were entertained royally and of course there was time for a session of bingo!
“After two years of Christmas disruption due to Covid-19, when older people in particular have faced isolation, it was fantastic to see people coming together to make and renew friendships.
“Having spoken with many of the residents, I know how valued these kind of events are, they genuinely do create moments of celebration and joy.”
Among those attending the Stratford Elders Christmas lunch were Gilbert and Owen from Stratford. Gilbert (on the left below), who at 96-years-old was the oldest guest, has been friends with Owen for over 30 years.
Owen said: “It’s a very nice occasion, everyone is turned out nicely and I’m enjoying the company and entertainment.”
Friends Shiva (left below) from Stratford and Millie from Forest Gate, were served their lunch by Cabinet member, Councillor Carleene Lee-Phakoe.
Shiva said: “We’ve enjoyed everything about it. I’ve been socialising and meeting people I haven’t seen for a long time. I’ve enjoyed going around and chatting to everyone.”
Sara (left below) and her mum Kamala were both impressed and were served lunch by Councillor Charlene McLean.
Sara said: “I think it’s a fantastic idea to get the ladies and gents out for a Christmas lunch. Great to see the effort made by Newham, it’s put smiles on people’s faces. It’s especially nice to meet new people and it feels like everyone has known each other for a long time.”
Sisters Olive (left below) and Millie also enjoyed their big day out.
Millie said: “The Council getting people of a certain age together at this festive time is wonderful, especially during this time of economic crisis.”
Newham Council is grateful to all the volunteers who helped make these events so memorable, and of course we thank our partners Tate & Lyle, Aspers and East End Community Foundation, who sponsored some events.