Portsmouth charity Age UK vows Christmas Calls campaign to combat loneliness will return this year

Callers notched up more than 18 hours of call time over the festive period as part of The News’ Christmas Calls campaign with Age UK Portsmouth to support those isolated at Christmas with a cheery voice on the end of the phone.

Pompey legend and charity patron Alan Knight joined MPs, staff from The News and members of the public to chat to people, supported by Age UK Portsmouth.

Charity chief operations officer Rory Massey said: ‘Knowing that the community are willing to come together at such an uncertain time to support those that have been impacted the most is inspirational.

‘The feedback was positive, nearly all volunteers want to continue with the calls including Penny Mordaunt and Caroline Dinenage.

‘With support from The News, we would love to run the Christmas Calls campaign in 2021. We will start the process of recruiting volunteers earlier this year to enable a larger number of people that want to get involved.’

Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan connected 75-year-old Women’s Royal Air Force veteran Linda.

He said: ‘This fantastic campaign has allowed me to connect with Linda and rekindle the spirit of kindness and friendship that characterises the season.

‘As a former trustee of Age UK Portsmouth I know just how valuable their work is to communities, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

‘I am proud to have taken part in The News and Age UK Portsmouth’s fantastic campaign to combat loneliness within our community.

‘I hope many will continue to stay part of the scheme beyond this period too.’

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Editor of The News, Mark Waldron said: ‘I am so pleased that we were able to spread a bit of joy in our city at such a difficult time but I am so proud of Portsmouth because people always come together to help each other out in times of need.

‘It will be great to get more people signed up for next year so we can spread even more joy.

Age UK Portsmouth is always on the lookout for volunteers at any time of year. Please call 02392 862121 or send an email to [email protected].

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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