Summary Report: Good Thinking Newham Small Grant – Befriending Celebration Events
Project Overview
Aishah Help’s Mind the Gap Befriending Programme aimed to reduce social isolation among older adults in Newham by fostering intergenerational connections and enhancing mental wellbeing. Funded by Good Thinking Newham, the programme successfully delivered two in-person events, engaging 67 older participants through structured activities that encouraged social interaction and emotional support.
A trained Super User provided onsite support, helped participants access mental health resources, and created a welcoming environment. The initiative directly aligned with Good Thinking’s mission to improve mental health and social engagement within the community.
Key Statistics
• Total Participants: 67
• Male: 4 | Female: 63
• Age Distribution:
• 40-44: 3
• 45-49: 2
• 50-54: 2
• 55-59: 4
•60-64: 11
•65+: 45
• Ethnicity:
• White British/English: 27
• British Asian Pakistani: 28
• British Asian Indian: 2
• Black African/Caribbean: 10
Key Learnings & Challenges
✅ Successful Approaches:
•Personalised invitations & outreach significantly improved participation.
• Accessible venues & transportation support helped ensure inclusivity.
•Intergenerational engagement created meaningful social connections.
•Super User support enhanced mental health awareness and access to resources.
❌ Challenges Faced:
•Long waiting lists for mental health services—alternative support options were provided.
•High demand for more frequent events—limited budget and staffing prevented expansion.
Unexpected Benefits
🌟 Older participants gained a sense of purpose by sharing their life experiences.
🌟 Friendships formed beyond the events, encouraging continued social interaction.
🌟 Increased community interest, leading to potential new collaborations and referrals.
Participant Feedback
💬 “I felt so welcomed. I haven’t been out to a social event like this in a long time.” – Maryam, 76
💬 “This event really helped me feel more connected.” – George, 82
💬 “It was good to feel useful again, sharing stories with others who listened.” – Mrs. Sheikh, 77
Impact & Future Considerations
📌 The printed resources and media guidance from Good Thinking were instrumental in outreach.
📌 Having a Good Thinking team member at an event helped build trust.
📌 The Super User training empowered support staff and improved event impact.
The Mind the Gap Programme successfully strengthened social bonds, increased access to mental health resources, and fostered long-term friendships, highlighting the ongoing need for social support initiatives for older adults.
🔗 For more information, visit: www.aishahhelp.com