NEWS RELEASE
CHRISTMAS CARING The STUC Youth Committee are today urging Scots everywhere to make time for their elderly friends and neighbours over the Christmas and New Year period.
For every pensioner who is out partying and there are plenty of them! there are those who have few friends or family to remember them. It is easy at this time of year to become involved in all the shopping, socialising and general celebrations, and to forget those who live alone.
Daniel Donaldson, STUC Youth Committee Chair said:
"We hope that every Scot, and particularly young Scots, will share a thought for elderly friends and neighbours who may need assistance at this time of year."
Rozanne Foyer, Secretary to the STUC Youth Committee said:
"Young people have not always received the best press in 2003, so the STUC would like to draw Scotland's attention to the very many young people who do look out for their neighbours and to encourage even more to do so as we approach 2004"
Doreen Kean, the Administrator of the Scottish Pensioners Forum, welcomed the Youth Committee's call and said;
"It takes only a few minutes to telephone, or better, to knock on someone's door to make sure that all is well. Regular services, such as home helps and posties are around less often at this time of year, so it is particularly important to keep an eye on older people. Call in to older friends and neighbours and bring them a bit of Christmas cheer."