Downpatrick Multi-Disciplinary Team Social Workers helped to spread the Christmas spirit this week as they organised a Festive Community Lunch at Owenbeg Bowling Club in Downpatrick, bringing people together to help tackle loneliness this festive season.
Owenbeg Bowling Club opened its doors to warmly welcome members of the local community with local businesses donating food and items to support the festive event. Those attending enjoyed an afternoon of singing, dancing and entertainment from St Colmcille’s Primary School Choir.
Patricia Fitzsimons, who attended, said, “It is great to come along to events like this as a lot of us are in the house, and it is very enjoyable to get out and mix with friends. We have attended a few of these events and they are great. When you are on your own, Christmas can be a very lonely time. I have enjoyed the dancing and the craic, it has been a great event!”
South Eastern Trust, Senior Social Work Practitioner, Julie McAleese, added, “Events like this help patients get out into the community and connect with others. We received a range of donations from local businesses for the lunch and we are very grateful for their support.
“Christmas can be really hard for people, particularly when they have lost loved ones or have spent many years on their own. They can feel very isolated, so events like this go a long way in helping to address loneliness at this time of year.”