Day Centres, Luncheon Clubs and friendship groups

What is a Day Centre?

Day Centres provide a range of activities, a chance to socialise and meet friends and a meal for older people, who do not have specialist needs. They are usually open all day and staff and volunteers organise different activities to suit and entertain the people who go there. These can include board games, bingo sessions, guest speakers on topics of interest, craft activities, entertainment, exercise classes, day trips and much more. Light snacks are provided in the morning and afternoon and most provide a hot, well-balanced meal at lunchtime.

People who have specialist needs because of frailty, a physical disability, sensory loss or dementia, are catered for by Day Care Centres that offer a higher level of support, tailored to user needs.

What is a Luncheon Club?

Luncheon Clubs provide a chance to socialise and meet friends and a hot meal for older people. Usually they open for just a few hours each day. They provide a place to go to enjoy a hot meal to save you from cooking at home. They also provide the opportunity to get out of the home, socialise with others and meet up with old and new friends. All members of the community are welcome and the clubs try hard to cater for everybody's different dietary and cultural needs.

Age UK Social Clubs

Age UK Richmond run social clubs and day centres for older people in the borough.

Other Social Clubs and friendship groups

There are many other local social clubs and friendship groups, including those that cater for a learning disability or a mental health need. Many churches also organise meetings and social events.

Special interest social groups

Other social groups in the borough cater for more specific interests, such as Richmond Music Trust who offer a music therapy service for people with mental health problems.

Voluntary Care Groups

Besides providing practical help to elderly people in need, groups such as Teddington and Hampton Wick Voluntary Care Group also often offer a befriending service. This involves specially trained volunteers visiting people, usually in their homes, to provide company or to help with problems or issues.

How much does it cost to go there?

The charges vary but Day Centres and Luncheon Clubs don’t aim to make a profit. In addition to the cost of any meals provided, many charge a small amount for coffee and tea as well as holding raffles to help out with the cost of entertainment, parties, or special occasions during the year.

How can I get there?

We encourage you to arrange your own transport. If you find it difficult to use public transport, you may be able to get help from the club of your choice, but you will have to ask them directly. There are also other ways of getting there. Please visit our transport pages for more information on getting around in the borough.