By Sally Allison

Befriended is looking forward to once again hosting its Christmas Day Community Lunch in Hurstpierpoint, bringing people together for a day of friendship, good food and festive fun.

At Befriended, we believe in helping people feel connected, supported and part of their local community. For many, Christmas isn’t the joyful, family-filled occasion so often portrayed in adverts. It can be a time of loneliness, financial pressure or difficult memories, making the festive season particularly challenging.

Whatever brings people along, our aim is to create a warm and welcoming space where everyone feels included and has the opportunity to spend Christmas Day with people who care.

We are incredibly grateful to the local businesses who generously support the lunch with offers of food and drink, as well as the amazing volunteers who give up their time to help.

The impact can last long beyond Christmas Day. By inviting an older neighbour or encouraging someone who may be facing a difficult time to join us, you could help them discover lasting friendships and a stronger sense of community, bringing hope, joy and peace into the new year.

Guests will arrive from 12.30pm, ready to enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, conversation, games and musical entertainment. There will also be the traditional King’s Christmas Broadcast, followed by festive carols, before everyone heads home at around 4pm.

Would you or someone you know like to join us this Christmas Day? To find out more or book a place, please email office@befriended.org.

Everyone deserves to feel welcome, valued and connected, especially at Christmas.