Extra support for older people who may be experiencing loneliness will soon be available at a new befriending event in Maidenhead.

‘Friendship Fridays’ is to be launched by McCarthy and Stone, a company who help manage and develop retirement communities.

Recent studies by McCarthy and Stone found that 55 per cent of over-65s often feel lonely – particularly when they are home alone. One in three said that the feeling of loneliness makes them feel said with 36 per cent admitting to feelings of depression.

The free event will aim to provide a friendship link for people who are feeling isolated by inviting them to an afternoon tea where they will have a chance to meet new friends in a relaxed environment.

The event will take place at the Elgar Place Retirement Living development on Bridge Avenue between 2-4pm on Friday 25th January.

Tracey Hilton, Sales Consultant at Elgar Place, said: “Friendship Friday’s is all about reconnecting older people with their wider community. We are committed to enriching the lives of older people and their families, and we know that engaging in activities they enjoy, and helping retirees to maintain their independence, is a big part of this.

“We want to put an end to the stigma around loneliness and show that it’s a completely natural way to feel and something we can all experience from time to time.”