A Garlinge mum-of-three is opening the doors of her Community Creative Studios at Westwood Industrial Estate for anyone who wants some company Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Amy Hughes opened her studio last year to run creative classes and support groups for everyone from children who are being bullied at school, adults with learning needs and people suffering with isolation and loneliness as well as to help those who are maybe struggling to find conventional routes into employment.
Amy and husband Stuart, supported by children Mia and Alfie, both 22, and George, 17, now want to offer a warm and safe space for anyone who is facing the festive period alone and would like to be in the company of others.
Amy, who started crafting in 2012 to help combat loneliness when Stuart was working away from home, said: “Since opening the studio the realisation of how many people are lonely and looking for some company has been really highlighted.
“Christmas is a great time for so many people but if you spend the run up knowing you are going to be spending it alone and don’t want to, that can be really difficult.
“The number of people spending Christmas alone is staggering, a lot of people think it is just the elderly but actually numbers of young people have been on the rise, with one in 11, 21-34 year olds and 15% of over 65s not seeing anyone on Christmas day.
“Some are happy on their own and that’s great, but for those that aren’t we wanted to offer a warm safe space.”
The Community Creative Studios will be open from 10am to 1pm both days for anyone aged 18+ who will be on their own
There will be some food and drink, activities and other people to chat to.
There is no criteria to go along, just put your name down via the online link or call the studio (details below).
People can attend one day or both and it is completely free.
Online link: https://communitycreativestudios.co.uk/products/community-christmas-project
Email [email protected]
Call 01843 663342
Address A7 D/E/F, Continental Approach, Westwood Industrial Estate, Margate, CT9 4JG
What a kind gesture.
Hats off to you both.