Aubyn Graham briefly glances at the white plastered walls of Elim house. The centre where he has volunteered for over three decades. A two-story building that has captured the hearts of hundreds of vulnerable seniors. A community to many, a safety net to others.
The hollow halls of Elim House slowly widened by the members laughter and joy. The infectious laughter was followed by a faint sound of music. The blissful displays of emotion where overshadowed by Graham’s tone, grasping reality.
But this reassuring reality for the lonely souls of Elim House may be comingto an end. Graham says donations to the centre have slowed to a trickle and maintaining the current facility would be improbable. The errors of the government may have cost the innocent seniors their centre.
The cost-of-living crisis has continued to cause immense harm to the funds that keeps the lights and heat on at the facility. Graham worries if these problems continue to arise the damage may be irreparable.
The daily fees at Elim House start from £15. This involves breakfast, lunch as well as all day activities. As the financial crisis progresses this price may increase. Leaving hundreds of vulnerable seniors devastated. As they struggle to afford their current necessities they are stuck to choose between their mental wellbeing and their home bills.
Graham urges how 850,00 older people could be spending the Christmas alone. Highlighting the recent cuts, they have faced as a centre. As the donations have minimised it has become harder for Elim house to continue to provide as they use to.
Testimonies shared by Graham portraying how essential these facilities are for the elderly specifically.
Sharing some local members thoughts of Elim House.
“The centre is somewhere for me to go during the day. Everyone in the centre is very nice and it is good having other people to talk to. I like the lunch and get involved in some of the activities, keep fit and faith sessions. I like the painting sessions.” – Mr. Michael, 75
“The staff and volunteer are friendly and nice. They know how to deal with people.” – Mrs. D. Simpson, 78
“I find the day centre alright, and I like the people I meet here. It was also very comforting attending the centre during my bereavement the loss of my dear husband” – Mrs. Black, 76
“The transport of the centre makes my life easier and less burden for my family. I also like the lunchtime and the food is great” – Mr. Campbell, 82
“I enjoy the events organised by ECAS, they make a change and I also have the opportunity to go out. I also enjoy going to the centre and the seaside outings. I enjoy going because my husband is always in bed” – Mrs L Mortley
The statements released by Graham has shown the urgency of day centres and how they don’t just provide food and shelter but mental support. He worries due to the climate of the financial crisis that this may lead to closure or raising costs for the activities.
Graham 78, currently works with those from deprived and underprivileged community groups such as Elim House. He has maintained his position as a trustee and volunteer at the centre for over 30 years.
He continues to partake in managing the community centres facilities. Assuring all activities are met to their standards and being the face of the centre, delivering the face-to-face services for the vulnerable which he has had for over 25 years.
Graham tells south London lines “I will work tirelessly to protect Elim house.”
