27th January 2020
Residents and the team at McCarthy Stone’s Purbrook development, Shilling Place, were joined by local retirees at a befriending event, ‘Friendship Friday’, which aims to tackle loneliness among the older generation.
Purbrook retirees were invited to the Retirement Living development on London Road for coffee and cake, which provided the opportunity for everyone to enjoy the company of others in a warm and welcoming environment.
The team at Shilling Place hosted its ‘Friendship Friday’ event following the findings into attitudes towards loneliness in Hampshire. McCarthy Stone found that 53 per cent of over-65s often feel lonely – particularly when they are home alone. One in five said being lonely makes them feel invisible, while 47 percent said being lonely makes them feel sad.
Geoff Bates, Head of Marketing at McCarthy Stone South, said: “The event was a great success. We were delighted to see the start of so many new-found friendships and everyone who attended had a fantastic time.
“Friendship Fridays are all about reconnecting older people with their wider community, especially those who may be feeling lonely or who are looking to find companionship. At McCarthy Stone, we are committed to enriching the lives of older people and their families, and we know that engaging in activities they enjoy, and helping retirees to maintain their independence, is a big part of this.”
Designed for the over 60s, Shilling Place features a communal lounge, which is perfect for socialising with new neighbours. Residents can make the most of beautiful landscaped gardens knowing all the maintenance is taken care of; and many properties also include patios or balconies, so retirees can enjoy the outdoors from their own apartment. A hotel-style guest suite is available for visiting family and friends.
A House Manager takes care of the day-to-day running of Shilling Place, while a secure entry system and 24-hour emergency call system provide added peace-of-mind.
McCarthy Stone is also giving retirees the opportunity to live their retirement years to the full, by offering up to £5,000 off or one month’s rent free on selected apartments. The incentive is available for eligible buyers and renters at Shilling Place who reserve apartment five or seven before 29th February 2020*.
For further information on Shilling Place, please call 0800 201 4811 or visit mccarthyandstone.co.uk
*Ts & Cs apply.
