Friday luncheon club to launch in Southwater

The Council is delighted to confirm this new community group which will meet weekly, with funding of £3,500 having been achieved via the West Sussex County Council Community Initiative Fund and supported by County Councillor, Brad Watson OBE.

The Council is also actively working with Horsham Age UK in providing this service in order to ensure that the needs of those attending can be addressed.

The grant will enable the Leisure Centre to upgrade catering equipment and deliver this much needed service especially with so many services and charities now having to target their resources for those most in need.

Whilst it is not likely that matters will improve in the future, this money has given the community a real chance of putting something in place prior to further cuts affecting those services currently being offered.

It is hoped therefore, to encourage those within the community who may feel isolated, vulnerable or indeed lonely to come along to a place which can offer warmth, activities and a hot meal once a week.

The Club, which will be run with Member participation and will operate from Southwater Leisure Centre in Pevensey Road, Southwater.

The intention is that the Club will open from 10am to 2pm and cater for those over the age of 50.

Games and activities will be provided, along with guest speakers, or if you prefer, just to meet and enjoy each others company.

The weekly cost for a two course hot meal will be £6.50 per person, commencing on Friday, 7th February 2014. You would therefore have to let us know your requirements at least 7 days prior to this. Meals will be provided from 12 noon – 1pm each Friday and are being catered for by a local business.

We do however need the support of the community in ensuring that sustainability of the project, by way of volunteers who could give a few hours each week to assist in serving the meals, or if you prefer just to talk to those at the club providing friendship and someone to listen to.

If you know of someone who may be interested in coming along, or, if you can offer a few hours of your time, please contact Catherine or Lynn on 01403 733202.

Report contributed by Southwater Parish Council.