Social event still going strong in Easingwold

A one-off event that used tea, cake and company to combat isolation in a North Yorkshire town is still going strong seven years later.

And a £350 grant from Broadacres’ Community Development Fund will ensure Easingwold District Community Care Association (EDCCA) can continue to serve up Tea and Tarts every month at the Galtres Centre.

The Association’s Chief Officer, Di Watkins, says feedback from attendees illustrates how important the regular gatherings have become.

“Some attendees enjoy themselves so much they have become EDCCA volunteers,” said Di.

“Another told me how it made such a difference knowing someone cared about her.”

The first event was part of BBC Radio York’s ‘Cake and Cuppa’ project that took place in 2018 and saw the local radio station visit various towns and villages that put on a get together for locals.

“It proved very successful so we decided to try and raise the funding to keep it going. We needed our own title so that’s how Tea and Tarts was born,” said Di.

“We kept going after Covid and it’s proved very popular. People would have been so disappointed if we had to stop so this funding from Broadacres is very welcome.”

The cakes and biscuits on offer are often donated and volunteers can help attendees get to the event if transport is a problem. As well as a chance to get out of the house, meet up with pals and make new friendships Tea and Tarts also features entertainment.

This has included crime prevention talks by the local police, and a spectacle repair and clean service by Specsavers.

“We also invited a therapy pony once which was a big hit and we’ve had quizzes, dancers and a magician,” said Di.

The get togethers also provide an opportunity to signpost other services and events and Tea and Tarts forms part of the social prescribing measures suggested by the local doctor’s surgery for those suffering loneliness and isolation.

To find out more about Easingwold District Community Care Association visit edcca.org.uk/

The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. The Association’s own residents approve all grants.

To apply to the Fund click here.