ORGANISATIONS and groups who support the socially isolated and lonely were this week allocated free Christmas Cruises after Harlow based canal boat charity, CanalAbility, were awarded funding through a grant from Harlow Council.

Working closely with Harlow Rainbow Services, organisations were invited to enter the draw, via support groups, to provide 110 people who are socially isolated and lonely to enjoy a Christmas Cruise with lunch, on-board specially adapted canal boats.

Loneliness doesn’t discriminate, affecting the young, middle aged and the more mature. There is an increased focus in many communities to support work designed to help people connect, take part in activities, and find new friends.

CanalAbility were delighted to be awarded the grant from Harlow Council, and, with support from Harlow Rainbow Services, were able to provide the opportunity for organisations and support groups to take part. The cruises will give people who may not usually look forward to this time of year, the chance to enjoy 5 hours of socialising, enjoyment, fun and a Christmas buffet lunch aboard specially adapted canal boats.

Jemma Mindham, CEO of Harlow Rainbow Services, was invited to draw the winning ten organisations and support groups who were allocated a free Christmas Cruise and they are :
Alzheimers, We Can, Integrated Support Services, Plant Pots and Wellies, Action For Family Carers, Harlow Stroke Support Rehab Centre, St Clare Hospice, PACT for Autism and Rainbow Services (Harlow).

CanalAbility is a registered charity dedicated to providing facilities for disabled and disadvantaged people, and people with special needs, to enjoy boating on the river on their specially adapted canal boats.

To find out more about CanalAbility visit the website www.canalability.org.uk or call 01279 424444.