South Wiltshire's elderly urged to keep social connections strong
Silver Salisbury is tackling loneliness among older people
A volunteer from Salisbury is urging elderly people across South Wiltshire to keep up their social connections to prevent loneliness.
William Cousins, who has lived in the city for many years, works with Silver Salisbury, helping coordinate activities designed to combat isolation among elderly residents.
Silver Salisbury provides a directory of events across Salisbury and the surrounding areas, enabling older people to meet others and participate in social activities.
The directory of clubs and groups people can attend is available at local libraries and community venues.
Importance of connection
Cousins emphasised the importance of creating opportunities for older people to engage with others and maintain social skills, noting how isolation can lead to a decline in wellbeing.
“Otherwise, people can easily go downhill on their own, feeling that no one cares or can help them,” Cousins said.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the impact of being cut off from others, particularly for the elderly. Cousins explained that making events accessible and inclusive remains an important priority.
What to expect at Silver Salisbury events
Regular coffee mornings at Salisbury Library are just one of the initiatives aimed at fostering social connection.
Visitors can enjoy a coffee, meet new people, and learn more about their community. William said they are welcomed by supportive volunteers who connect them with groups tailored to their interests—from history groups and support networks to hobby-based gatherings.
“We just want to connect with people and help them to feel part of that community and group,” Cousins added.
The power of shared experiences
Cousins also shared his personal experience of attending Silver Salisbury events, pointing to the meaningful connections formed through meeting people with shared interests. He recently gave a talk about his trips to India, which sparked conversations with others who had been there.
“For me, it’s meeting people. You realise there are so many interesting people living locally, people who’ve done fascinating things. It’s about feeling that people aren’t just stuck in their homes, but part of something bigger,” Cousins said.
Silver Salisbury continues to support older residents, offering them a chance to engage, socialise, and combat feelings of loneliness.