devon day trippers
We all know that living rurally can make it difficult for many people to get out and about. We are very aware of the negative impact on people's confidence this might have, leaving them feeling isolated and lonely.
The Devon Day Trippers project was for over 55s who were interested in meeting new people and seeing new places. We went on weekly day trips to places of interest in Devon, such as Dartmouth, Exeter, Totnes Market and Endsleigh Garden Centre. These trips are were free and included a cup of tea on arrival.
“I find the trips invaluable because I have no transport of my own and love to explore with other like-minded people.
My life feels enriched by going on these trips and I very much enjoy the companionship of the other trippers.”
“I feel I have been on holiday - even if it is only for four hours. As I don’t drive, being able to get out and meet people from my community that I have never met before is a refreshing tonic and I return home with renewed enthusiasm for life and where I live!”
We embarked on a Day Trippers knitting project encouraging all people to take part in knitting a long scarf which will be a visual journal of all the trips made by the Devon Day Trippers.
Volunteer Lisa and our Leader Lucy, taught knitting to people who had never had the experience of this activity.
“I try to get the bus into Exeter but sometimes I miss the early bus and get in too late. This has been wonderful, especially the social part. I’ve been having a pretty lonely time for the past few months, or years probably. This has been great, chatting and singing all the way to Exeter and back again!”