This Valentine’s Day, love was in the air for those who gathered in St Cuthbert’s Church to attend Age UK Kensington & Chelsea’s annual Concert and Afternoon Tea.
Age UK Kensington & Chelsea is an independent local charity that supports the welfare of over 6,000 older people in the heart of the community. Their goal is to encourage independence and inclusion in later life, all whilst ensuring that older people’s voices are heard. The charity also provides invaluable befriending services, practical help, advice and social activities in order to combat loneliness amongst the most vulnerable and isolated elderly.
This event in particular, for the 6th year in a row, undoubtedly succeeded as a celebration of companionship and solidarity.
On arrival, guests were welcomed to an atmosphere of smiling faces and animated chatter. The convivial seating arrangement allowed the possibility for new friendships to form. At tables covered in red decorations and plenty of roses, the guests enjoyed afternoon tea in high spirits surrounded by the magnificent architecture of the church.
Our helpful UCL volunteers were on hand to serve tea and coffee, assist the guests to their seats and give out roses and heart-warming handmade cards from the children of Southbank International School on the door.
The afternoon was topped off with musical entertainment from two of Age UK’s partners – The Nucleo Project and Opera Holland Park. Performances of fittingly romantic songs were met with dancing, laughter and applause. An additional thank you is necessary for Age UK Kensington & Chelsea’s other partners – West Way Trust and City Living Local Life.
Overall, our praise is due to the charity’s fantastic way of bringing together the wider community with, of course, the all-important message: all you need is love!
Written by Ruth Woodfield, Student Photojournalist
If Ruth's article and pictures have got you feeling like you're missing out - don't worry! You can browse all our available One-Off opportunities so you can get involved in the fun. You can also check out Age UK Kensington and Chelsea to see if they're looking for volunteers.