Hill House tackles loneliness with ‘Don’t Eat Alone’ lunch

Hill House care home in Honiton, managed by the Abbeyfield Living Society, welcomed members of the local community for a special ‘Don’t Eat Alone’ lunch on 17 February, aimed at bringing people together and tackling loneliness.

Guests from Honiton and Combe Raleigh, who would otherwise have been eating alone, joined Hill House residents and staff for a free fish and chips lunch, followed by an afternoon of live entertainment.

Music was provided by local band The Jim Jamz, led by Rachel and Albert Murphy - the daughter and son-in-law of a former resident - alongside a harpist who added to the lively atmosphere.

Nic Trueman, activities and wellbeing lead at Hill House, said: “We know that there are people in our community who live on their own, and we have witnessed the untold damage that loneliness can do to one’s mental and physical wellbeing. With the immeasurable value we place on social interaction, we created this opportunity to invite people in who would benefit from a hearty lunch, some fantastic company, and maybe even make some new friends.”

The event was met with enthusiasm, with guests praising the initiative. Pauline, a local resident who lives alone, shared: “What a wonderful afternoon we've had. Good food, good music and lovely company!” Another guest added: “I would normally have been sat at home on my own. This has been such a treat!”

Hill House provides residential and dementia-friendly care for up to 30 older people and offers respite stays to support caregivers, ease recovery after hospital stays, or introduce individuals to long-term residential care.

Melody Taylor-Brown, care home manager at Hill House, expressed her hope that events like these would continue: “We are our own little community here at Hill House. Although this event lasted only a few hours, we hope our guests saw the benefits of life here for our residents. We would be delighted if any of them considered joining us for a respite stay or as a resident in the future.”

Building on the success of the initiative, Hill House hopes to make ‘Don’t Eat Alone’ a regular event. The home has previously hosted similar gatherings, including a Christmas dinner for ten guests who would have otherwise spent the day alone, complete with a festive meal and a visit from Father Christmas.