Letter by Inverness pupil chosen to feature in Age Scotland's Christmas cards

A letter written by a pupil at an Inverness primary school is helping to spread festive goodwill after being chosen to feature in Age Scotland’s Friendship Service Christmas cards.

Georgie Gilham (9), of Kinmylies Primary School, took part in a competition organised by housebuilder Robertson Homes for children to write letters to older people who may be feeling lonely this Christmas.

The project is part of Robertson Homes’ support for Age Scotland’s Friendship Service which helps isolated people feel better by listening, offering support, and letting them know that someone cares.

School children were asked to write a letter or poem about the magic of being a child at Christmas and to share their festive feelings with someone who might be spending Christmas alone.

Robertson Homes also made a contribution of £1500 to support the work of Age Scotland and presented Georgie with a £50 prize voucher.

Sharon Spinelli, sales and marketing director at Robertson Homes, said the letters showed the children at Kinmylies Primary School were a generation of thoughtful and caring young people.

"Christmas can be a particularly difficult time for many of our older community and it was heart-warming to see how all the children at Kinmylies Primary School understood how people can feel spending the festive period alone," she said.

"Georgie’s letter made it very clear that there are always people in the community who think about others and I am sure their letter will bring a smile to the faces of those who read it."

She hoped the children's work would raise even more awareness of Age Scotland’s "fantastic" services which provided a lifeline to vulnerable people.

Faye Lingard, head teacher at Kinmylies Primary School, said: "We are very proud that Georgie’s letter has been chosen and it’s nice to see how our caring pupils can help people in the wider community.

"The pupils enjoyed learning about being responsible citizens and confident individuals during their writing time and all the pupils who took part were keen to help those who find this time of year difficult."

Michelle Supple, Age Scotland’s interim chief executive, said tens of thousands of older people in Scotland were very lonely at this time of year, especially those living alone or without friends and family close by.

"For those who find it difficult to tell loved ones how they are feeling, or who might not have anyone else to turn to, our Friendship Line can offer support, comfort and reassurance or even just a friendly chat, and our Comradeship Circles help ensure older veterans stay connected with their community through regular group calls," she said.

People can call for free on 0800 12 44 222.

She added: "We’re so grateful to Robertson Homes for supporting our lifeline services and to everyone who has taken part. It’s a wonderful project and we know the letters and poems will help make Christmas brighter for the older people who receive them."

Robertson Homes, which is building new homes developments in Torvean and at Great Glen Rise, is supporting Age Scotland’s Friendship Line across Scotland and is hoping the schools project will help raise awareness of the vital service.

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