One Vision Housing awarded £10k to host events to tackle homeless

Social and retirement housing provider One Vision Housing (OVH) are addressing the issues of loneliness and lack of social interaction in older generations.

Studies show that social events can improve mental and emotional wellbeing as well as lower depression and anxiety.

The housing association successfully applied for National Lottery Awards for All funding towards four, free entry, community events taking place between June and December 2018.

OVH are working with different local organisations to invite individuals who would benefit from the social interaction afforded by the events.

The first of the four events was The Great Get Together (a More In Common project in partnership with the Jo Cox Foundation) which took place at the Bootle Firwood Cricket Club on Friday 22^nd June.

Other events include a Suffragette-themed afternoon tea with live entertainment to celebrate Older Person’s Day in October, a WWI centenary event involving the Armed Forces and local veterans, and a Christmas Day Lunch where guests, who may be spending the holidays alone, can enjoy a three course meal in the company of fellow attendees and volunteers.

OVH Head of Customer Empowerment, Ann Owens said: “We were overjoyed to be awarded this funding which allows us to reach more people in our communities. It’ll make a real difference to those who may be socially isolated and wanting to get out a bit more and meet new people.”

For more information about One Vision Housing and their work in the community, visit ovh.org.uk