Our members are Chinese elders who are aged 55 to 90+, many of them were born before or during the Second World War. At the time, food was scarce and education was difficult to come by; many are partially if not entirely illiterate as a result. Due to their lack of skills, arduous work was needed in order to earn their living. Without the services, and opportunities for them to educate themselves,
coupled with their reserved nature due to traditional culture, after retirement, they often find themselves isolated and not knowing how to seek help or the services and welfare available within Bristol. Ageism is a common form of discrimination, with language difficulties added on top, the Chinese elders become one of the most vulnerable members of our society. We believe that they have worked hard and contributed to society, and thus deserve to be cared for and respected. The Elderly People’s Club is a place for them to socialize, and to seek help where needed. Every Tuesday and Thursday during opening sessions, there is a member of staff on hand to coordinate various services for members including: health and social care, language support, and translation. In the club, because they have similar backgrounds, language and culture, they can talk freely, entertain and exercise together. The club acts like their second home and family, they can feel a sense of belonging here. Recently, the council has stopped funding to the club so to keep the club running we need your help urgently. If you could make a donation of just £10 via our new online fundraising page then it will be matched by Localgiving. This means your £10 will be worth £20 to the Club and will help us to continue providing this essential service for Chinese elders in our community.
