COMPANIONSHIP AT CHRISTMAS

That this House commends the remarkable work of the Companionship at Christmas campaign, run by the charity Abbeyfield, which aims to improve the quality of life for older people by combating the acute loneliness felt by many over the Christmas period; recognises the importance of such an initiative given the growing number of older people; congratulates Abbeyfield for responding to this need in practical and creative ways by offering free lunches and overnight stays to older people in the area; acknowledges the value of inviting individuals from local communities to support, befriend and care for older people who may be far from their loved ones and suffering from loneliness; and urges all hon. Members to support and promote the campaign in their own constituencies.