Charity looks to the future with new base

A Gateshead charity supporting older people affected by loneliness and isolation has relocated as wider regeneration plans for a former tower block site move forward.

Teams and Bensham Community Care has moved from the former communal lounge building at Redheugh and Eslington Court to Holy Rosary Parish House in Teams.

The charity, founded in 1990, provides lunch clubs, men’s groups, wellbeing activities and accessible transport to help older residents stay active and connected.

Its relocation follows Gateshead Council’s decision to decommission the Redheugh and Eslington tower blocks and nearby garage site, with long-term ambitions to redevelop the land for affordable housing.

The council contributed £68,000 towards the charity’s relocation and refurbishment, helping unlock a wider £250,000 funding package, while also supporting the move by identifying suitable premises and funding professional project management and surveying services.

Samantha Allcott, strategic director for housing, environment and healthy communities at Gateshead Council, said: “Teams and Bensham Community Care has been at the heart of the local community for many years, providing invaluable support to older residents and helping tackle loneliness and isolation.

“We were committed to working closely with the charity throughout the decommissioning process to help secure a sustainable new home where they can continue delivering these important services for many years to come.

“The relocation represents a positive step both for the organisation and for the wider regeneration of Redheugh and Eslington Court as we continue progressing plans to create new affordable housing and support thriving communities across Gateshead.”

Michelle Chirnside, project manager for Teams and Bensham Community Care, added: “We are delighted to have settled into our new home at Holy Rosary Parish House and are incredibly grateful to Gateshead Council for the support they have provided throughout the relocation process.

“The funding and practical assistance we received helped make the refurbishment project possible and ensured we could continue supporting older people in our community without interruption.

“We would also like to thank our other funders, partners, staff, volunteers and beneficiaries who have all played a part in helping us begin this exciting new chapter. 

“We look forward to continuing our much-loved lunch clubs and men’s groups well into the future.”

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