EDINBURGH charity Vintage Vibes has re-launched its personalised Christmas card appeal in an effort to tackle loneliness amongst the elderly during the festive period.
The appeal, which began in 2017, returned on Thursday and runs until 10 December.
With Edinburgh named as one of the loneliest cities in the UK for older people, it aims to ensure those who are isolated feel valued with a personalised card.
Anybody can sign up and can receive the name and profile of a local person in return for a £3 donation.
The award-winning charity was started in 2015 to combat loneliness and isolation in over-60s across the city, whom they refer to as “VIPs”.
It offers tailored support, companionship and assistance with becoming more socially involved in the community, with 30,000 hours of friendship volunteering racked up so far.
Another aim is to change overall attitudes towards over-60s across all generations.
Hundreds of older people have engaged with its friendships and groups, with 97% saying that being involved has improved their wellbeing and helped them feel less lonely.
91% said it improved their mental health, up from 71% the previous year as they realised the impact it had on them.
As part of the Christmas card appeal, the charity provides the recipients’ interests to help create a unique message, with add-ons available for an extra donation to create a special gift.
Donors can help to fund essential transport for a housebound VIP, a Christmas lunch for all VIPs, or something as simple as a trip for tea and cake with company.
Sheila, a VIP who has benefitted from the appeal, said: “I joined Vintage Vibes over a year ago. At that time, I was feeling a bit down and very alone.
“I then got introduced to my friendship volunteer, Nicky and we never stopped talking and laughing. I love socialising, attending their events and groups too.
“I then I found out about the Christmas card appeal and asked to be included. When I received my Christmas cards, I think I cried a lot.
“My cards were mainly from local school children and were so adorable they touched my heart.
“I love the company and joy that Vintage Vibes brings to me and so many lonely people. Vintage Vibes is part of my life now and I can’t praise them enough.
“I recommend anyone thinking of taking part to just do it. You won’t regret a minute of it.”
2025 marks a major milestone for Vintage Vibes, as it moves towards becoming a fully independent charity.
With a threat of funding cuts to social services, it has emphasised that its work is more important than ever.
It was formed as a partnership between LifeCare Edinburgh and Space at the Broomhouse Hub.
It is hoped the move will help to build even more friendships and communities as part of a new five-year strategy.
Georgia Artus, development manager at Vintage Vibes, said: “This is my favourite campaign in the year, because we know from our VIPs what a difference this makes to their Christmases.
“Sheila’s story of crying with joy at receiving the cards is not the only I’ve heard, and I’ve been to VIPs houses where they have kept the cards long after Christmas is over – something this simple really does matter to someone spending Christmas alone.
“For us, the recent funding cuts are challenging, however we’re excited for our future as an independent charity and now more than ever, we are asking for the support of the local community to help continue our vital work helping older people to live happy, healthy lives.
“I would encourage everyone to get involved, it is so easy to do, incredibly fulfilling and supports the future of friendships in Edinburgh.”
Year-round, the charity matches VIPs with volunteers based on location, availability and shared interests.
The intention is for friendships to go beyond simply meeting at the same time and place every week, and become genuine, meaningful connections.
Some existing friendships have lasted several years so far, with activities ranging from meeting for a cup of tea to day trips to events or attractions.
VIPs must be referred to be matched with a volunteer, with the charity having over 200 referrers, including GPs, social workers and mental health services.
93% have credited its efforts, claiming it has helped to reduce the need for older people requiring critical care such as admission to a hospital or care home.
To prevent people being left on its waiting list for long periods of time, the team practices “responsible referring”.
The location of volunteers across the city is assessed every two weeks, with referrals only opened in areas where there is capacity to do so.
