We're always looking for ways to improve the experiences of Re-engage volunteers, and this month I’m happy to announce that we are piloting new technology to help reassure call companions that safeguarding concerns can be picked up and acted upon quickly. We know you take your role extremely seriously and we appreciate the support you give us in highlighting potential issues facing the older people you speak to. Read on to discover more.

In this issue of Re-engage Matters, discover more about our commitment to reducing loneliness through activity groups which support physical and mental wellbeing. We’re launching new groups across the UK, and you can get involved by volunteering to lead a group – if you’re interested, please do get in touch at knowledge@reengage.org.uk

Alongside our older person and volunteer advisory groups, we’ve launched a brand-new research group. This group allow us to engage meaningfully with older people and involve them in our research activities, such as helping us design our insight studies, and working with universities. Our aim is to create opportunities for members to contribute at all stages of our research and impact work. If you’re aged 75 or older and have experience of loneliness or isolation, you can apply to join our brand-new research group and help us shape the future of the charity – find out more below.

If you'd like to get in touch with comments, questions or information, please email us at knowledge@reengage.org.uk

With very best wishes,

Natalie Hassall

Support team manager

New activity group lifts spirits

Hear from activity group participants in Birmingham as they explain how exercise and friendship make the perfect combination for combating loneliness.

Changes for call companions

Safeguarding our older people and volunteers is a top priority for all of us here at Re-engage. Later this month, we’re introducing a new trial initiative to give call companions peace of mind and an improved experience. 

We'd love to know why you volunteered to be a call companion so we can use your inspirational story to encourage others to join you in supporting lonely or isolated older people.

Re-engage annual report 2023-2024

You can delve into our latest annual report on our website.

New Re-engage research group launched

If you’re aged 75 and older and have experience of loneliness or isolation, you can apply to join our brand-new research group.

Successful sipping 

Our number crunchers have calculated that on average, our tea party guests, hosts and other volunteers sip, slurp and sup an incredible 109, 872 cups of tea (or coffee!) every year at Re-engage tea parties. Whether you prefer Earl Grey, ‘builders’ or herbal, we’re sure you’ll agree that’s a tea-rrific total!

The value of volunteering

We ask older people what Re-engage means to them. Each month, we share some feedback so you can see the impact your time, energy, and generosity have on older people’s lives all year round.