A care home in Winchester will be opening it’s doors to people from the community to help tackle loneliness. 

Flowerdown Care Home in Winchester is hosting an initiative to combat loneliness in the local area.

On March 19, people in the community, particularly those who might usually dine alone, are invited to the care home for a communal three-course lunch.

The invitation is part of the ‘Don’t Dine Alone’ initiative by Barchester Healthcare, which runs Flowerdown Care Home. Guests at the are home will be able to enjoy not only a satisfying meal, accounted for varied dietary needs and preferences, but also a welcoming afternoon.

Attendees can engage in chats with residents and staff and participate in the day’s activities planned by the home after the meal.

Claudia Nunes, general manager at Flowerdown, said: "Loneliness can be a big problem for elderly people, especially as the weather gets colder. Our doors are always open to new friends of the home."

This initiative is part of Barchester Healthcare's ongoing commitment to delivering personalized care and fostering active community engagement. Flowerdown Care Home caters to 48 residents requiring different levels of care, from respite to long-term stays, including residential, nursing, and dementia care.