Popular Snack & Chat member becomes Bingo caller and celebrates his 90th!

Told by Sharon, Snack & Chat Project Manager at Worcester Community Trust

“Geoff initially became linked to Snack and Chat at the start of the pandemic, referred in to receive weekly care packages and befriending calls from the Trust. Geoff lived alone and so this regular connection and care provided huge support during a difficult time for him. Geoff stated he “longed to see his family” and so a friendly face dropping off his care package each week was vital contact.

“Geoff remained positive, enjoying his chats with staff but couldn’t wait to re-attend social groups once it was safe to do so.  We gave him details about how Snack & Chat lunch clubs worked so that he had this to look forward to once our Hubs were able to safely reopen.

“We also learned that Geoff had built a link with another member of Snack & Chat and had begun to contact him by phone every week during the lockdown, just to provide some extra company.  This was wonderful for both members and a real friendship was formed.  

“As the lockdown eased and centres reopened Geoff began to attend the weekly groups and became a friendly face to other members.  His natural positivity and cheery nature was infectious and this helped other members who were less confident coming back to the group after the pandemic. 

“As Geoff has become an ever popular and enthusiastic member of the lunch club over the last year or two, we recently invited him to play a more active part by becoming the bingo caller for our regular games after the meal. He was delighted with this as it has now given him a particular role in the group, helping him to feel useful and valued.

“In 2022 we celebrated his 90th birthday in Snack and Chat, surprising him with a singer and cake. Geoff was so taken aback but absolutely loved it, feeling very emotional and mentioning how he wished his wife could be here to see it.  This event clearly meant a lot to him and he enjoyed a dance with his fellow snack and chatters and in true style gave a little speech!

“Geoff now does a lot for us at the Trust, he’s such a community person and celebrating him was a absolute must.”