Looking for a friendly way for an older person to get out, meet people and enjoy a good lunch? The ACB Lunch Club in Banstead could be just what you're looking for.
For many older people, getting out and about isn't always as easy as it once was. Perhaps friends have moved away, family live further afield, or mobility and transport can make socialising more difficult.
That's why local community groups and services can make such a difference. Sometimes, having somewhere welcoming to go on a regular basis can provide much more than just a meal – it can provide friendship, conversation and something to look forward to.
The ACB Lunch Club, run by Age Concern Banstead, is a lunchtime meet-up for older people in the local area.
The club takes place on the third Wednesday of every month, from 11am until 2.30pm, at Banstead Community Centre, The Horseshoe, Banstead.
The day starts with tea or coffee and biscuits before lunch, giving everyone the opportunity to settle in, chat and catch up with others. This is followed by a two-course lunch, with the afternoon providing plenty of time for conversation and companionship.
It's a relaxed social occasion rather than simply somewhere to come and eat.
One of the biggest barriers to getting involved in activities can be transport.
Age Concern Banstead says that most members are brought to the lunch club using its minibus or by a volunteer driver, while some people who live nearby are able to walk to the venue.
This can make the lunch club much more accessible for people who might otherwise struggle to get out independently.
The organisation also operates a specially adapted minibus which can carry elderly clients and up to three wheelchair users. Transport arrangements and availability should be checked directly with Age Concern Banstead before attending.
It's easy to underestimate the importance of regular social contact.
A monthly lunch can provide an opportunity to:
The club also celebrates special occasions, including Christmas, Easter, jubilees and milestone birthdays, helping to create a real sense of community.
The ACB Lunch Club is just one of the services provided by Age Concern Banstead.
The organisation offers a range of support for older people across Banstead, Chipstead, Epsom Downs, Hooley, Kingswood, Nork, Tadworth, Tattenham, Walton on the Hill and Woodmansterne.
Services include information and advice, help with disability benefit applications, a carers' support group, a men's club, a befriending service, transport support, Musical Memories and more.
If you know an older person who could benefit from some additional company or support, it can be worth finding out what's available locally. You don't necessarily need to be looking for formal care – sometimes a social group, lunch club or befriending service can be a really positive first step.
If you or someone you know would like to find out more about the ACB Lunch Club, contact Age Concern Banstead before attending to check availability and discuss transport if required.
📍 Banstead Community Centre, The Horseshoe, Banstead, Surrey SM7 2BQ
📅 Third Wednesday of each month
⏰ 11am – 2.30pm
The ACB Lunch Club is listed on Connect to Support Surrey, a useful online directory of local services and support. Surrey County Council also recommends lunch clubs as an option for people looking for a hot meal alongside an opportunity to socialise and meet others.
Find out more about Age Concern Banstead and its services:
Age Concern Banstead
Find local support through Connect to Support Surrey:
Connect to Support Surrey
At thebestof Epsom & Ewell, we love highlighting the organisations, groups and services that help make our local area a better place to live.
From community activities and local events to support services for older residents, there are often more opportunities available locally than people realise.
Sometimes it's simply a case of knowing where to look – and sharing that information with someone who might need it.
https://www.connecttosupportsurrey.org.uk/search-results/services/?id=b0ad8743-19e2-4437-a2d5-b29500dc05c5&searchParams={%22searchText%22:%22lunch%20club%22}
