A large banner on Rose Hill Methodist Church announces that the ‘Community Drop-In’ is on!
It’s free, has a variety of activities and everyone is welcome. As you walk in you are greeted by two friendly people offering tea and biscuits. There are tables set up in the church hall, with a variety of games, activities, and some with colouring pads and pens.
Choose your own activity
Today a volunteer is running a popular quiz, with most people choosing to join in with their chairs in a circle. There lots of chat and laughter.
Two women are quietly playing Scrabble at a separate table. They met and became friends at the drop-in, and now attend together every week. They shared telephone numbers and also do other things together outside of this group.
A mother and her 30-year-old son attend most weeks. The spend all their time at the colouring table, as that is one of the things the son likes to do most. He is wary of being around others, but is comfortable here as he is used to it and knows the organisers. The mother says that she would like to see more groups especially for people with schizophrenia.
One man comes in weekly for a coffee and to read the newspaper. The organisers tell me he prefers to have a brief chat with them and then spend time quietly to himself.
A group of men are chatting together. They meet here and enjoy the space. One man says that he was sectioned in the last few years. He now lives in sheltered accommodation, and says that coming here is what he looks forward to most in his week. Some of the men have joined a male choir, run by one of the men, and say that they enjoy coming to the group and seeing the others.
Bringing in helpful organisations
Age UK visit monthly with info and advice. They have a friendly relationship which is conducive to individuals having their needs met with personalised help and support.
The group works with Abingdon & Witney College to organise monthly activities, including printing, crochet and other craft activities. All activities are optional, and are enjoyed by those who choose to try them. “I haven’t crocheted since my grandma taught me, it’s lovely to try it again,” said one woman.
Meeting a community’s needs
There is an easy, low-key atmosphere that is clearly appealing to those who attend. There are organised activities if you want, and plenty else to choose from if you don’t. A great collaboration between a national organisation (Age UK) and a local group (Abingdon & Witney College) who have a deep reach into the local community and its residents. These types of groups are needed in every community.
Well Together is being delivered in partnership by OCVA and Community First Oxfordshire and has been funded by the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (NHS BOB ICB).