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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.
Margaret's story
Margaret, one of Marmalade Trust’s members, was feeling especially isolated during the pandemic. “I was extremely lonely through Covid,” she reflects. “I never thought I would feel lonely... you just get really down."
Having spent her life working with people, Margaret never imagined she’d be someone facing loneliness. But as her mobility worsened, she found herself losing confidence and withdrawing from social life.
When she heard about the Marmalade Companions project, it seemed like just what she needed. "It sounded really good as I wanted more company and I liked the idea of finding more social links in my area."
From the start, Margaret found her volunteer easy to talk to, and they quickly built a rapport. "We got chatting very easily, and we even shared bits of magazines by reading them out on the phone." These regular calls gave Margaret a boost. "The calls make me feel better! I am now feeling more positive and more included."
The project didn’t just lift Margaret’s spirits – it helped her regain a sense of connection. She and her volunteer talked about her past, including her time in the army, and the things she enjoyed doing. With her volunteer’s encouragement, Margaret was reconnected with the Legion in her local area. "It’s not far from me, so I hope to be able to go there soon. They do lots of different things!"
For Margaret, the Marmalade Companions project has been about more than just easing loneliness – it has helped her rebuild her confidence and rediscover social connections in her community.
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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