Health and Welfare
Caring Altogether on Romney Marsh (CARM) charity provides a range of free services to reduce social isolation and loneliness for over 400 older people across their operating area. They have a volunteer base of around 140 people and their office is based at the Romney Marsh Community Hub.
The charity provides a variety of services, including befriending, Meeting Points, outings, and reminiscence sessions.
The befriending service runs across the Marsh either face to face or via a telephone call. Most of the people who benefit from this service are housebound and are grateful for the chance to talk or have a game of cards.
Meeting Points are similar to coffee mornings but with extra support and services, at 11 locations across Folkestone, Hythe District and Ashford. Volunteers also organise outings for Meeting Point attendees two or three times a year.
Talking and musical reminiscence sessions are a positive experience, helping those who take part to feel valued and listened to. Most importantly, they are great fun. The sessions are facilitated by trained volunteers, using a variety of props as triggers to encourage memories.
CARM does not charge for its services, relying on grants, donations and fundraising. This goes towards the annual operational costs, including vetting and training volunteers, and providing them with ongoing support.