The newly formed Sunshine Group, operating out of Bishop Auckland Cricket Club, is making some positive noise around the town. Aimed at offering older people opportunities of friendship, conversation and support, the group is now entering its third week.
Whilst the concept isn’t of course new to the town, there is no doubt that it is already having a positive influence on many senior members of our community. The Sunshine Group is the brainchild of local businessman John Elliott, along with BACC Life Member Paul Furby. Mr Elliott lost a brother in relatively recent times and felt there was an opportunity within the town to reach out to folk who were perhaps sometimes isolated in their lives, maybe had lost partner, or just even needed to engage with others in similar circumstances.
The concept has been supported Durham County Council employee Julie West, who is involved in Skills Development across the county and indeed has laid some solid foundations to offer educational courses as part of the meetings, such as computer literacy, first aid, food hygiene and other educational subjects such as maths and English.
Meetings are held twice weekly at Bishop Auckland Cricket Club, Mondays & Wednesdays 10am – 2pm and offers hot drinks and light snack refreshments, all in the comfortable environment of ‘The Pavilion’ clubhouse.
Program leader Paul Furby is delighted with the first couple of weeks attendance. ‘We’re really trying to offer people a comfortable place to regularly meet and enjoy each other’s company. Once the program establishes itself a little more, we will be able to offer attendees simple skills training to help them with everyday life, such as learning Zoom video calls, basic internet training along with other desired activities. There is no charge and already we have regular members attending and really enjoying the opportunity of some company’.
The Sunshine Group
Meeting Times: Mondays & Wednesday 10am – 2pm
Program Leader: Mr Paul Furby
Contact: 07976569912
Venue: Bishop Auckland Cricket Club, Kingsway, South Church Road
