Shopping to make life better for older people
Food Train Connects is not just for Lockdown
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he Food Train Connects service has been launched across northern Scotland, adding another layer to widespread community efforts to ensure people do not go without vital shopping supplies. It is part of work by the wider Food Train organisation as part of its mission to ensure over-65s can eat well and live well in their own homes, tackling issues including malnutrition and loneliness. The Connects service, the rollout of which began just eight months ago, sees an older person matched with a specific volunteer shopper in their area who carries out weekly grocery trips for them. It is an extension of Food Train’s award-winning established home shopping service, with the individual match allowing the charity to support people in areas such as Moray where it does not currently operate.
Carol said: “The feedback we get from people is that the service is a real lifeline, but we know there is a need to reach a greater number of people.” “Connects is an ideal way for the charity to get involved in helping people across Moray. It removes geographical boundaries and reaches out to anyone who needs support, no matter where they live.”
With a well-established track record of working with older people through work with other charities, she knows the difference that the service makes.
“An older person who can’t get their own shopping can now have someone to get it for them. This also helps with social isolation and for them to stay connected to their community. It enables them to stay independent for longer.”
Connects - along with the wider Food Train shopping service - ensures its members can access the food needed for a good diet - and enjoy social contact as it is delivered, within all Covid-19 public health guidelines.
Across Scotland, Food Train’s team of volunteers and staff are now getting groceries
Development officer Carol Anderson is leading the charge locally and is encouraging residents in Moray to spread the word among older people who may benefit from the service, or want to become involved themselves, to get in touch.
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Development officer Carol Anderson
Stuart Hugh
