As the festive season approaches, Llanelli, kidwelly and Swansea based community organisation CETMA is turning its focus to supporting people over 50 in Swansea, recognising that while Christmas can be joyful for many, it can also be one of the most isolating times of the year.
“Christmas is the best time of the year for some, but the most difficult for others,” Elian, CETMA Swansea office manager explained. “Older generations who may have lost touch with friends or family often feel worse than ever during the holidays. That inspired us to create the 50+ Support Project giving people a surefire way of meeting others in a similar demographic and the chance to have genuine connections.”
At the heart of the initiative is CETMA’s Warm Hub, a calm and welcoming space designed to provide comfort without judgement. The hub offers opportunities to socialise, share experiences, and break cycles of isolation that can become harder to escape as people age.
Digital training sessions are also a key part of the programme, helping participants stay connected in today’s online world. CETMA noted that while Covid highlighted the importance of tools like Zoom and Teams, support for learning these platforms has since diminished. “We aim to make the process simple, enabling participants to take full advantage of technology to communicate with friends and family.”
The project also includes bi-weekly trips to Swansea’s historical and nature sites, balancing cultural enrichment with the wellbeing benefits of time outdoors. Volunteers play a vital role in organising travel and sharing knowledge during visits, many motivated by the support they themselves once received from CETMA.
Funding from Swansea Council’s COAST programme has made the initiative possible, covering costs to ensure sessions and trips remain free of charge. CETMA emphasised that inclusivity is central, with a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and a commitment to welcoming everyone regardless of background or circumstance.
The impact has already been felt. One participant, who initially came for food support, discovered a wider network of services and described the experience as life-changing: “I felt as if my mother, who had recently passed away, was looking down on me from Heaven.”
Looking ahead, CETMA hopes the project will continue beyond this winter, potentially expanding to other age groups or communities. “We want to provide valuable opportunities for people to socialise through the most isolating months of the year, and encourage them to reach out to others in similar positions.”
For those interested in joining, CETMA’s Swansea office can be contacted by phone on 01554 556996, by email at swansea@cetma.org.uk, or in person at the office Monday to Thursday, 10am–4pm. The final full day of opening before Christmas will be Tuesday, December 16th, with a shortened day on Wednesday, December 17th for a trip to Clyne Gardens. The office reopens on Monday, January 5th, with the first Warm Hub session of the new year scheduled for Wednesday, January 7th.
“These experiences are invaluable for enriching the mind, improving wellbeing, and building friendships,” Elian said. “Even attending one session or trip can show people the benefits first-hand.”