Participle

Southwark Circle is growing fast (ahead of even our own expectations!) and has built up a dynamic group of Members and Neighbourhood Helpers.

A popular conversation amongst members during the lead-up to Christmas is the usual line-up of useless gifts. The biggest offenders are socks, ties, bubble bath and foot spas. One member even told us ‘I’ve got a whole drawer full of ties, and I only ever wear one! I certainly don’t need anyone to buy me more ties”. This is where the idea for the “No More Socks” campaign came from.

We know from our members that they really value support with practical tasks that help out with the day-to-day, but we also know that many members use their visits to teach, learn and share. So we have designed six useful, thoughtful and fun gift packs that anyone can buy their friends or family in Southwark. From ‘In Touch’, which features Skype and internet lessons, to ‘The Great Outdoors’, which includes a garden tidy, front door re-paint or other DIY jobs outside the house, there is a gift to suit everyobdy’s taste.

The social element is an important characteristic of Southwark Circle. Members share their skills and help other members; there are regular trips and outings, plus a monthly newsletter full of ideas of how to get the most from membership. This is why we have also developed the ‘Out and About’ gift, which gives the recipient the opportunity to join in on outings, like the one this week to the South Bank’s German Market and the Tate Modern.

“No More Socks” has had an enthusiastic response from Southwark Circle members. They were delighted to take an active role in influencing how people think about what is important to their older relatives and friends. Members had great fun posing for the poster, which features them picketing against socks and bubble-bath. You can see the photos here, or coming soon on a local Southwark bus near you!

In fact, members enjoyed the photo shoot so much, that one came up with the idea of rallying around the Camberwell Bus Depot on the morning that the adverts are unveiled on local buses.

Besides one member’s concern that people might say he had a face like the rear end of a bus, everybody is revved-up to be part of a the demonstration! So, on November 25th at -11am outside Camberwell Bus Garage, Southwark Circle members will be saying it again – ‘No More Socks!’

You can buy your Southwark Circle gift sets here, or email us at , or call us on 0800 112 3441.