Community

Concern over ageing dads

Published

10 years ago

November 19, 2014

PEOPLE across Great Britain with older parents have spoken out about their fears for their lonely Dads after new research revealed that 63 per cent believe their Dad is lonely even though 30 per cent say they don’t think their Dad would admit to it. Half (50 per cent) of people with an older Dad (over 75) who lives alone said that they don’t think their Dad enjoys his hobbies as much as he used to.

The reasons for older men letting go of their hobbies include a lack of motivation (35 per cent), having no one to enjoy them with (19 per cent) and 10 per cent said a lack of transport was a reason for letting hobbies go. The research is released to coincide with the launch of Royal Voluntary Service’s ‘Let’s Tackle Loneliness’ campaign which aims to recruit more male volunteers. The initiative will help the charity to rekindle dwindling social lives of older men who live alone. A host of high profile rugby clubs have pledged support and the charity is calling on more to come forward now to help raise awareness of the issue and encourage their supporters to become volunteers.

‘Let’s Tackle Loneliness’ clubs including Cardiff Blues, Leicester Tigers, Castleford Tigers and Harlequins, and rugby legends including Dan Cole and JPR Williams, are pledging their support by joining the charity’s virtual Silver Squad (#tackleloneliness), calling on men across Great Britain to share their skills and hobbies and a small amount of time to help local older men stay connected. David McCullough, Chief Executive at Royal Voluntary Service, said: “Supporting your local or national sports team gives a feeling of belonging and comradery for many men and women.

Our research shows that on average men spend 3.3 hours a week chatting about sport with their friends and family. So it also provides an excellent common ground to grow new friendships. “Through the Let’s Tackle Loneliness campaign we want to minimise the barriers to continuing with hobbies and interests. Our volunteers can provide companionship, give a lift where it is needed or buddy-up go to the local rugby game.”

JPR Williams, Welsh rugby legend is supporting the Let’s Tackle Loneliness campaign: “It’s hard to imagine what life will be like when we are older when we are in peak physical fitness but it is important to realise that everyone has something to offer. We all have different skills and interests, whether that’s supporting your local or national team, playing golf, popping to the pub for a pint or going for a drive, those skills and hobbies can easily be shared with someone local to you.

As part of the Let’s Tackle Loneliness campaign I encourage you to register to volunteer for as little as an hour a week to share your skills and interests with an older man who may be suffering from loneliness in silence.” Launched in 1938 as the Women’s Voluntary Services, the charity’s founder, Lady Reading, attracted over one million female volunteers to lend their support on the home front during the war.

Now called Royal Voluntary Service, the charity supports older people and wants more men to volunteer. The charity currently has an army of over 35,000 volunteers but less than a fifth of its cohort are men. Royal Voluntary Service helps over 100,000 older people with services such as Good Neighbours (companionship), Meals-on-Wheels and Books-on-Wheels that help alleviate loneliness. Royal Voluntary Service also provides practical support for older people who have been in hospital through its On Ward Befriending and Home from Hospital services. To volunteer or find out more about Royal Voluntary Service or to sign up as a volunteer call 0845 608 0122 or visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

Community

Veterans urged to register for historic VE and VJ Day events

Published

11 hours ago

January 9, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION is inviting Second World War veterans and their families to register for commemorations marking the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day in 2025. These events aim to honour the service and sacrifice of the generation that contributed to the Allied victory.

Milestone anniversaries

This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May 1945 and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 August 1945. Registration is now open on the RBL website for veterans, their families, or carers to join commemorations at both national and community events.

The RBL is organising a series of events to ensure the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation are forever remembered. The celebrations will recognise the critical role played by Allied Forces from Britain, the Commonwealth, and beyond.

National unity in remembrance

Last year, the nation came together for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, with major events attended by members of the Royal Family, political leaders, and the public. In 2025, the RBL hopes the nation will unite again to honour the generation that fought for the freedoms enjoyed in modern Britain.

D-Day veteran Jim Miller, 100, from Merthyr Vale, shared his perspective:
“2025 is an important year for my generation, with anniversaries for both VE and VJ Day. It is always an honour being part of a Royal British Legion event, joining with comrades to remember and pay tribute to those we lost. I encourage all who served to register on the RBL website to ensure they are involved.”

Preserving a legacy

Philippa Rawlinson, Director of Remembrance at the RBL, highlighted the importance of these commemorations:
“These 80th anniversaries are likely to be among the last opportunities to come together as a nation with Second World War veterans to honour their bravery and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Everyone in modern Britain has a connection to those who experienced the War, whether through family or community. It’s vital we mark these anniversaries with commemorations in communities across the UK and with national moments of gratitude.”

Rawlinson also emphasised the importance of sharing veterans’ experiences:
“We are inviting all Second World War veterans to register so their contributions, including ‘forgotten stories,’ can be shared and remembered. Their service shaped the world we live in today.”

Honouring contributions from all walks of life

The RBL invites registration from British and Commonwealth Armed Forces veterans and those who supported the war effort, such as munitions workers, Bevin Boys, and individuals from reservist occupations or the Special Operations Executive. Registrants will receive updates on commemorative plans and invitations to events.

A time for reflection

While VE Day 80 will reflect the celebratory street parties marking victory in Europe, VJ Day 80 will honour the conclusion of six years of global conflict.

The RBL, working with the Government and other stakeholders, is developing educational resources and community projects to ensure younger generations understand the legacy of the Second World War.

For more information and to register, visit the Royal British Legion’s website.

Community

New minibus brings hope for Pembrokeshire Mencap students

Published

11 hours ago

January 9, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A NEW minibus, funded by South Hook LNG, has been unveiled to support Pembrokeshire Mencap’s vital work at Stackpole Walled Gardens. The vehicle replaces an aging minibus and ensures safe and reliable transport for adults and young people with learning disabilities across the county.

The minibus, purchased through South Hook LNG’s generous donation, will allow participants to continue their horticultural training and work experience at the historic Stackpole estate. Hamad Al Samra, General Manager of South Hook LNG, expressed pride in their long-standing support of Pembrokeshire Mencap.

“We have a long association with Pembrokeshire Mencap and the inspiring work they do for those with learning disabilities, as well as their families,” said Mr. Al Samra. “The purchase of this new minibus ensures the continuation of much-needed services. It is our pleasure to contribute to such a valuable community effort.”

Tony Marmara, Chair of Pembrokeshire Mencap Trustees, highlighted the significance of the donation. “The new bus will afford opportunities to access more learning and pleasurable experiences for our clients,” he said.

The presentation of the vehicle brought together South Hook LNG representatives, Mencap Trustees, staff, participants, and their families at Stackpole Walled Gardens to celebrate this milestone.

Pictured: Supporting the community: Hamad Al Samra and South Hook LNG staff join Mencap Trustees and participants at the unveiling of the new minibus (Pic: Supplied)

Community

Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre Open Day: A Warm Welcome to All

Published

12 hours ago

January 9, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE HAMAD BIN KHALIFA Islamic Centre in Milford Haven is delighted to invite the people of Pembrokeshire and beyond to its Community Open Days on Saturday, January 18, and Sunday, January 19, from 11:00am to 4:00pm on both days.

This event provides a unique opportunity to learn about Islamic culture, connect with members of the local Muslim community, and enjoy a range of engaging activities and exhibits. Highlights include:

Exhibition of Islamic culture
Guided tours of the mosque: Explore the beautifully restored Tabernacle building on Charles Street, Milford Haven, located next to the old police station.
Refreshments: Provided for visitors on both days.

A message of welcome

Sheikh Mohsen Elbeltagi, Deputy Imam at the centre, shared his enthusiasm for the event, saying: “We are proud to be a part of this wonderful community and are appreciative of the support that we have received. Extensive repair and renovation of such a historic building in the town has given us a beautiful, social venue from which we extend a warm welcome to both Pembrokeshire’s Islamic and wider communities.”

Dress code reminder for female visitors

The mosque kindly reminds female visitors to dress modestly while on the premises. This includes covering the body appropriately. For guidance on suitable attire, online resources are available to assist.

A centre for cultural connection

The Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre serves as both a spiritual and cultural hub for Milford Haven’s Muslim community and its surrounding areas. It hosts five daily prayers, a weekly Friday sermon led by Sheikh Mohsen, and is committed to fostering understanding, building bridges, and creating an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome to learn and share experiences.

Event Details

The open days are free of charge, and everyone is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Sheikh Mohsen Elbeltagi at [email protected].

Take this opportunity to explore, learn, and celebrate diversity in Milford Haven!