Edinburgh woman felt 'down and very alone' before touching Christmas card from local

An Edinburgh woman told how she felt "down and very alone" before receiving Christmas cards from locals.

It comes after charity project, Vintage Vibes, launched their much-loved Christmas Card Appeal to ensure lonely and isolated older people across the city feel valued and not forgotten this festive period.

Personalised Christmas cards can be written and sent on to Vintage Vibes in time to distribute to them to those in need in time for Christmas. All the family can get involved, with Vintage Vibes VIPs - older people they support - loving to receive children’s drawings and crafts as part of the card.

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VIP Sheila said: "I joined Vintage Vibes over a year ago. At that time, I was feeling a bit down and very alone. I then got introduced to my friendship volunteer, Nicky and we never stopped talking and laughing. I love socialising, attending their events and groups too.

"I then I found out about the Christmas card appeal and asked to be included. When I received my Christmas cards, I think I cried a lot. My cards were mainly from local school children and were so adorable they touched my heart. I love the company and joy that Vintage Vibes brings to me and so many lonely people.

"Vintage Vibes is part of my life now and I can't praise them enough! I recommend anyone thinking of taking part to just do it. You won't regret a minute of it."

Since 2017, Vintage Vibes has invited local people to write a very special Christmas card to a specific isolated older person in the city, by sending them a profile of someone who they know will be lonely this festive season.

By sending a personalised card, individuals can make a profound difference to a local older person, with some Vintage Vibes recipients keeping their cards up for months after December.

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This year, Vintage Vibes need the public to get behind them more than ever as funding cuts threaten to impact vital services.

Georgia Artus, Development Manager at Vintage Vibes said: “This is my favourite campaign in the year, because we know from our VIPs what a difference this makes to their Christmases.

"Sheila’s story of crying with joy at receiving the cards is not the only I’ve heard, and I’ve been to VIPs houses where they have kept the cards long after Christmas is over – something this simple really does matter to someone spending Christmas alone.

“For us, the recent funding cuts are challenging, however we’re excited for our future as an independent charity and now more than ever, we are asking for the support of the local community to help continue our vital work helping older people to live happy, healthy lives. I would encourage everyone to get involved, it is so easy to do, incredibly fulfilling and supports the future of friendships in Edinburgh.”

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Neil Hay, CEO Space (parent charity) said: "I'm inspired by Vintage Vibes' remarkable growth and impact over the past few years. Through innovative programs and unwavering dedication to the VIPs, Vintage Vibes has transformed countless lives. The positive ripple effect of their work is a testament to the power of love and compassion.

“Their commitment to making a difference has uplifted communities and inspired an outstanding volunteer team to join their cause; their collective effort will hold them in good stead as they move into the next chapter as an independent charity."

You can find out more about the campaign here.