Silver Friends tackles isolation in Hexham

A North East housing provider is supporting older residents’ wellbeing through community-led initiatives aimed at reducing loneliness, drawing praise from a local MP.

Newcastle-headquartered Karbon Homes has been recognised by Hexham MP Joe Morris for its Silver Friends programme, including the Talking Stories group held at Hexham Library.

The free sessions, open to people aged 50 and over, provide a space for attendees to meet, share and discuss stories, helping build social connections.

Mr Morris said: “It was lovely to meet such a friendly and welcoming group. 

“The group is a great example of how getting out and socialising with others can be hugely beneficial for your mental health and wellbeing. 

“It’s a chance to meet like-minded people, discover new interests and, in this case, find a great new story to get into.

“I’m thrilled that Karbon Homes and Silver Friends are putting on events like this for the community, forging friendships and giving people the chance to discover the fantastic venues places like Hexham have to offer.”

Dot, a local Karbon Homes’ resident, has been attending Silver Friends events since they started in Hexham in January.

She added: “I’m a prolific reader and I’ve always fancied joining a book group. 

“This one isn’t like other book groups where they give you a book to read and then discuss; you can read what you choose and then share that with other people.

“I love hearing about what everyone else is reading. 

“It’s so laid back and easy. 

“I do like to talk, and Silver Friends is a nice way to meet people and have a chat.”

Talking Stories forms part of a wider programme delivered by Karbon Homes across West Northumberland and County Durham.

Silver Friends offers a range of activities designed to engage older and vulnerable residents, including film clubs, men’s groups and community games.

The initiative aims to improve mental health and wellbeing by creating regular opportunities for social interaction in accessible local venues.

Christine Fletcher, the Silver Friends coordinator at Karbon Homes, added: “We were thrilled to welcome Joe Morris to one of our Silver Friends groups and show him how much it’s flourished and grown over the last few months.

“The group started earlier in the year and the difference it’s made to our attendees has been amazing. In our first session, people were quite tentative, but now they’re all excited to talk about the latest book they’ve read or story they’ve listened to. 

“We’re seeing this reflected in all our groups.

“As people get older, they can be affected by life stage change. 

“It can be things like retirement or an illness that stops them from doing the things they used to, and they don’t know how to kickstart it again. 

“Silver Friends empowers them and helps them feel more confident and less lonely. 

“We’re drawing people out of their shells and helping them find new activities and new interests.”

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