This year we're celebrating the 10th anniversary of our fabulous partnership with Postcode Lottery and thanking the players who continue to help us reduce loneliness in later life for people across the UK. 

Over the last decade, Postcode Lottery players have raised nearly £5m for Re-engage. And during that same period, thousands of older people have received support from Re-engage through our free monthly tea parties, regular activity groups and weekly call befriending services.

The funding has helped us launch nearly 370 new groups and recruit, train, and support 5,700 volunteers. One of our most recent launches is an expansion of our cinema and social group 'Flicks and Friends', with new groups opening in Scotland and Wales. While our services are delivered by volunteers, it’s this funding that brings everything together, making sure every group is safe, supported, and able to keep going, and that people can stay connected week after week.

Emma Larter, Major Gift Manager at Re-engage, said: “The generosity of Postcode Lottery players over the last 10 years has been phenomenal, and has helped make a huge difference to the lives of thousands of isolated older people.

“Our services are crucial for many of them, particularly those who may go weeks without speaking to anyone. Without the support of Postcode Lottery players we wouldn’t be able to reach the people most in need of company and companionship.”

Among those who have benefitted from the generous donations is Betty, 97, from Southampton. She has been with the charity for 45 years, starting as a volunteer driver, progressing to running Sunday tea parties, and eventually becoming a guest.

Betty explained: “It’s been a big part of my life. I’ve made many friends over the years and have enjoyed the tea parties so much. They are very important to me now because it’s the only time I can get out of the house. Having someone pick you up and take you home again is a big bonus."

She added: “It’s so nice when I’m able to get to the tea parties, they do mean so much to me.”

Betty, whose husband Keith died nearly 20 years ago, became a self-employed pharmacist after serving an apprenticeship at Boots the Chemist. She has a daughter, two sons, two grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Regular donations to Re-engage enable us to start new collaborations, like the recent one with Pickleball for Wellbeing in Scotland.

Christine, 87, a former PE teacher, whose husband John died a few months ago, is delighted to have joined a Re-engage Pickleball group in East Kilbride. She told us:  “This really is my first venture back into the world. I spent three years looking after John and had to give up a lot of activities, but going to pickleball is helping me get back to normal. A friend told me about the group and I really enjoy going along. In fact, I’ve been re-introduced to someone I used to teach with at a local school. I hadn’t seen him for many years so it was a nice surprise.” 

And Postcode Lottery players’ money also helps people like Maureen who was distraught after her husband of 64 years died. Maureen, 88, shared: “I was in deep despair. I was so down and depressed I didn’t know what to do. We didn’t have any children and my family is a bit widespread so I felt alone and lost.”

After calling Samaritans, she was referred to the Re-engage Call Companion sevice, and was matched with one of our volunteers, 27-year-old Ellie, for regular phone chats. Maureen said: “She has been a real lifesaver. From the first time I spoke to her I’ve never looked back. She is a breath of fresh air and I really look forward to her calls. We talk about all kinds of things and always have a giggle.

“Ellie always listens and it feels like she knows me so well. She really is a blessing in disguise, a complete treasure.” 

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at Postcode Lottery, said: "It’s fantastic to know that for a decade Postcode Lottery players have supported Re-engage, raising an incredible £4.8m to help end loneliness among older people. This funding has enabled thousands of people aged 75 and over to reconnect with their communities and build life-enhancing friendships, ensuring they feel heard, valued and engaged. 

"We're never too old to make new friends. It's great that player support is helping to make this a reality so for so many people."