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Last summer, the Community Foundation awarded Search – Services for Older People CIO a £1,000 grant through the Asian Fund. The funding helped cover travel costs for older people in Newcastle’s West End, enabling them to explore local landmarks and enjoy days out.
Elaine Hollingsworth, Senior Philanthropy Advisor at the Community Foundation, said:
“The generosity of the Asian Fund meant Search could help older adults reconnect with their community and the wider region. The success of the trips is a testament to the fantastic work Search does for older people.”
The funding resulted in a series of day trips to some of the North East’s most iconic destinations, including the Beamish Museum, Barnard Castle and the Bowes Museum, Preston Park and Butterfly World, and the stunning Northumberland coastline at Warkworth and Alnmouth. For the Beamish trip, an accessible tail-lift vehicle was arranged to prioritise those with mobility needs, ensuring the experience was inclusive and enjoyable for all.
By subsidising the cost of the trips, Search was able to ask only for a small contribution from participants, making the outings more accessible for those on lower incomes.
One attendee shared how her mother, who is living with dementia, became visibly animated during their visit to the Bowes Museum, “It was like turning the clock back a few years. For a moment, I saw the real her again.”
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. 100% reported improved wellbeing, with many saying the trips gave them a welcome break from routine and a chance to revisit meaningful places.
Simon Luddington, Chief Officer at Search, shared:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Community Foundation for supporting our summer trips this year. The trips have been a part of Search’s calendar for over 40 years, they are eagerly awaited and book up very quickly! For many, this is often the only time they leave Newcastle or the West End all year. We often find that those who are new to Search and have attended the trips become more involved in regular activities, where new friendships form.”
If you are interested in learning more about our funds, you can read more here