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Marmalade Companions is a time-limited 1:1 project operating across Bristol, North Somerset and South Glos. Friendly volunteers make a weekly call to those involved to discuss their interests and needs. These conversations will lead to signposting to local social activities and community support, to improve social connections. The project enables people to make meaningful, long-lasting connections that bring them joy far beyond the program.
Kev's story
For 68-year-old Kev, being part of the Marmalade Trust has been an uplifting experience. After losing his wife, loneliness crept into his life. “I didn’t really recognise it at first. It seems to creep up on you. Then it’s denial,” he explains. “I didn’t think I was lonely—but really, I was. I think of Marmalade Trust as my second family because they’re so good to me."
Kev found support through Marmalade Trust’s Christmas Cheer and Marmalade Companions projects. “I enjoyed coming to the Summer Party get-together, where I got to meet my volunteer in person for the first time.”
Through the Marmalade Companions project, Kev was matched with Alun, a volunteer who called him every Wednesday. “The best thing was being matched with Alun. Every Wednesday at 10 o’clock, I knew he’d be on the end of that phone. He’s great because it gives you a purpose. You give up work, and suddenly, you’ve got nothing to get up for. I needed help to get back out there—you’re on your own. We clicked straight away with music and heritage—he was Welsh as well.”
Alun, along with other members, encouraged Kev to get back into social activities. “They encouraged me to go out to live concerts and socialise. I was even hoping to learn Hebrew, and Alun found me a teacher. But unfortunately, due to the Gaza war, she returned home.”
For Kev, loneliness is something many people don’t fully understand. “It’s similar to a mental illness—there aren’t always visible signs, no bandages, no physical injury. Very few people seem interested.”
Marmalade Trust has made a huge difference in his life. “Just a small amount of time or a little event can make someone like me feel wanted. The older you get, the more invisible you become. If you're thinking about getting in touch with Marmalade, just do it. I can't think of what's not to like."
How we help in our area
As well as our national and international campaigns which raise awareness of loneliness, Marmalade Trust runs projects which support those most at risk from experiencing loneliness in our region.
Our most long-running project is our annual Christmas Cheer lunch in the Bristol, South Glos. and the North Somerset area for our ‘Marmalade members’, older and vulnerable people who would otherwise be by themselves on Christmas Day.
We also run our Marmalade Companions project. Trained volunteers empower and support older people to new activities, social connections and friendships in their local community.
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