On Wednesday 5th October, The Four Clocks Community Partnership Friendship Club, in Newgate Street, celebrated receiving a £3,000 funding award from the Bishop Auckland and Shildon
Area Action Partnership (AAP). The money will help secure the future of the club and support the range of activities it provides to members, such as bingo, trips out, quizzes and coffee mornings.
Bishop Auckland County Councillor Joy Allen said: “Studies have shown that loneliness can be more harmful than smoking 15 cigarettes a day and Britain has been described as the ‘loneliest place in Europe.’
“A recent public health report estimated that 7% of the population between 18 to 64 are socially isolated and this would equate to 22,000 in County Durham.
“From speaking with club members today I am confident this funding will be well spent and will help us tackle social isolation as well as increasing friendships across Bishop Auckland.
New members to the club, which has been described as a project that gives people the opportunity to connect with family and friends, are always made welcome.
Anyone interested in joining the club can attend one of the drop in sessions that run every Friday between 1pm and 3pm.
Alternatively, they can call Pauline Roe on 01388 609852 to find out more.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
