Following a launch and prayer event on 2 November, the Christian charity Faith in Later Life is encouraging Christians and churches to reach out to their older neighbours this winter.
The Love My Neighbour campaign runs until the end of March 2027 and brings together the charity, which is a Body in Association of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, with The Salvation Army, Linking Lives and Houses of Light. Together they are united in combatting loneliness and isolation among older people and in their desire to see older people valued and connected throughout the winter.
“Winter loneliness can be devastating, especially for older people, but every single one of us has the opportunity to make a real difference,” says Alexandra Huggins, CEO of Faith in Later Life. “It isn’t rocket science – the simplest acts of kindness, friendship and practical support can be genuinely lifesaving and lifegiving.”
Love My Neighbour encourages Christians to put their faith into action through four simple commitments: Pray for my neighbour; Visit my neighbour; Invite my neighbour – for example to a church activity, outing, social gathering or shared meal; and Help my neighbour.
This year, the campaign, which runs annually, is inviting people to sign up and make a pledge to take one or more of these four actions. The campaign offers a range of resources and ideas, including a short video that churches and individuals can share to raise awareness of winter loneliness and inspire others to get involved. These are available on the Love My Neighbour campaign page.
The organisers say that, for many older people, winter can be particularly isolating. “Shorter days, colder weather, poor health and reduced opportunities to socialise can leave people spending long periods alone, with potentially devastating consequences for their physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.”
Alexandra Huggins adds: “We’re encouraging people everywhere to think about the older people in their neighbourhoods, make a pledge and follow it through. Together, we can help ensure that fewer older people face this winter alone, while sharing something of the wonderful love and hope of Jesus.”