A mosque in Bradford, northern England, hosted a free Christmas Day lunch aimed at tackling loneliness among elderly people during the festive season.
Dynamic Social Care, a Bradford-based care service provider, organized the event at Shearbridge Community Hall, which is part of Shearbridge Road Mosque, The Telegraph and Argus reported.
The initiative brought together elderly residents for a three-course meal, entertainment, and free transport.
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“Our campaign to tackle loneliness this year during Christmas has been a huge success and greater than what we had anticipated,” said Ms Mehnaz Bibi, Project Manager at Dynamic Social Care.
“Our event was unique because it was held at Shearbridge Community Hall which is part of Shearbridge Road mosque.”
Around 80 people attended the lunch, including British Member of Parliament Naz Shah and local community figure Graham Swain.
Restoring Dignity
Organisers said the event focused not only on providing food, but also on restoring dignity, connection, and a sense of belonging.
“We emphasised the importance of togetherness during the holiday period,” Ms Bibi said.
“We talked building communities and how the sacrifices and contributions made by the older generation had been forgotten by society leading to them feeling forgotten about.”
The initiative reflected broader concerns in the UK about loneliness among elderly people, particularly during holiday periods when isolation can intensify.
By opening mosque facilities for the event, organisers said they hoped to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all.
“Our event left people feeling valued, heard and seen which is what we want to achieve as an organisation,” Bibi added.
In addition to the meal and activities, a raffle draw was held during the event, raising £370. All proceeds will be donated to a food bank in the Holme Wood area of Bradford, extending the impact of the initiative beyond Christmas Day.
Organisers said the event demonstrated how faith-based spaces can serve the wider community, especially during times when compassion and human connection are most needed.