In the run up to Christmas, as part of their joint efforts to combat loneliness this winter, young adults from ESTEEM supported by young people from Electric Storm Youth invited local Lancing residents to an afternoon of board games, complete with biscuits and cups of tea.

Commenting on the event Karen Macleod, Operations Manager of Electric Storm Youth said “Our young people really enjoyed taking part in this event as they are always keen to help with community projects, and they are very passionate about the idea of working to combat loneliness. It was also great to be working with ESTEEM and Lancing Parish Hall as it shows the wonderful things young people and different organisations can do when they work together.”

Sophie O’Regan from ESTEEM, added “It was very exciting to be leading the project because I think it’s important to reach out to people in our community, especially during the winter season when people might feel isolated. There’s still quite a lot of stigma and stereotypes between both generations. We’re hoping to rewrite that narrative and bridge the gap between young people and the elderly.”

The event even caught the attention of ITV Meridian News who sent a reporter and film crew to capture the event which broadcast on on New Year's Eve.