The UK’s first day centre tailored for the Asian community has launched a new scheme tackle isolation and loneliness in Southall.
Over 100 residents of Sahaara Court and users of the nearby Southall Day Centre gathered to celebrate the new initiative.
They were joined by the Mayor of Ealing, Cllr Tej Ram Bagha, MP Virendra Sharma and Catalyst chief executive, Rod Cahill. Entertainment was provided by residents of Sahaara Court and Southall Day Centre, who played music and sang songs specially prepared for the occasion.
Catalyst will use the Sahaara Court communal area as a pilot for the ‘hub and spoke’ model of community development, providing an informal and welcoming environment for those outside of the scheme that may be in danger of feeling isolated. Isolation is becoming an increasing problem in the UK had can have a devastating effect on an individual’s health. In 2013 The Office for National Statistics found that 46% of those over the age of 80 felt lonely and isolated.
Activities such as yoga and dance will be made available along with arts and crafts provided by the Fashion and Development Centre. There will also be sessions offering advice on welfare benefits and help with filling forms; information sessions on health and English language classes.
The ‘hub and spoke model’ will be supported by Southall Day Centre. The first day centre in the UK to tailor its services to older people in the Asian community.
Rod Cahill, chief executive, Catalyst Housing: " Catalyst has been working in Southall since the mid 70's. We have always believed that our role is not just to build homes but about developing our communities.
"Last year we celebrated the 35th anniversary of the Southall Day Centre and the positive impact it has made on the surrounding area. It brings me great pleasure to see this work now extend to Sahaara Court."
Mayor, Cllr Tej Ram Bagha: " Southall Day Centre and Sahaara court have been an excellent part of the community. It wouldn't have been as successful without the hard work of the team here or the good will of the people who attend the centre. Southall is a multi cultural society and has lived in peace and harmony and with projects like this new community hub it will continue."
David Rooney, managing director, Fashion & Development Centre: " With the help of Catalyst we opened the Fashion and Development Centre in 2002. Over the 12 years we have provided activities to people of all ages giving them new skills and qualifications. Currently, with funding from the People’s Health Lottery, we run a sewing and craft club here for people of all ages. We are happy to now open this up to all residents in the area."
