Creating connections this Christmas with Lothian

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… but for many older people it’s the loneliest.

One in five over 65s say Christmas Day is the hardest day of the year.

As the Charity of Choice for Lothian, we are delighted to support their annual Christmas video which this year highlights the vital role their bus network plays in creating connections.

Take a look at the video here.

This festive season, we are joining Lothian in inviting everyone to reach out, reconnect and help make Christmas a litter brighter for the older people in our communities.

No older person should face Christmas alone. Let’s create connections when it matters most.

Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director at Lothian, said:

“Lothian play a vital role in helping people and communities stay connected across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Partnering with Age Scotland this Christmas allows us to shine a light on loneliness, which is an issue that can affect many older people.  

“We hope that our Christmas video will inspire others to take the time to do small things that can make a big difference, particularly at this time of year.”

Age Scotland’s Chief Executive, Katherine Crawford, said:

“Christmas is considered one of the best days of the year for many, but for those spending it alone it can be the hardest.

“We’re so grateful to our charity partners at Lothian for championing this issue and highlighting the importance of connection and community at Christmas through their festive video this year.

“Together we can all play our part by reaching out to older friends, relatives or neighbours over the festive period.

“As Lothian’s video demonstrates, it doesn’t have to cost anything either. A simple chat or gesture of kindness can be all it takes to turn someone’s day around if they are feeling lonely and isolated.”