Laughter, connection, value and friendship all play a vital role in our well-being. Meaningful connection and community help our sense of belonging and purpose into later life.

Caraway aims to facilitate this for older people across Southampton. Founded in 2018 we have been growing a dedicated team of Chaplains and volunteers who come alongside older people and help them to navigate the experiences and changes later life brings.

Whether a home visit, a telephone call, or at a local community group or Care Home – we aim to:

• Combat loneliness
• Create community
• Celebrate life

Our Team

Meet our wonderful team of staff and volunteers.

Team

Why do you come as a volunteer to help with events like Vintage Adventure in church? …Well, as I’m getting older, I realise that for an awful lot of the elderly, they’ve not got very long left to get to know the lord So I think this generation is the most important ministry. If you’re in with students and you mess it up, they’ve got a whole lifetime when they can met somebody who will correct it. We haven’t got that luxury so this is a very important ministry and I just want to do my little bit.

Rob Childs

I do enjoy all of it. I think the service at the start is good. I know some people find the little figures a bit patronising, but the discussions are good and it's good to meet up with friends and it's good to see all the displays. It does make you think. It’s the companionship and the friendliness. It’s just a pleasant few hours really. I think it’s nice to be using the church for a truly worshipping session.

Heather

"Just wanted to say a huge Thank You to you and your colleagues who put together yesterday’s event. Our Residents that came along had a fantastic time, it was lovely hearing all about their day when they got home. Many Thanks."

Care Home Manager, Holiday at Home

TO EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE CREATION OF HOLIDAY AT HOME - "A TASTE OF SPAIN" Many thanks indeed for such an enjoyable time - and a delicious meal! The children's performances were wonderful!

Guest from Holiday at Home 2024

I wanted to say thank you on behalf of our care home for the warm welcome and hospitality you showed us during the Harvest Festival service this morning. Our residents truly enjoyed being a part of the celebration, and it meant a great deal to them to join in the service.

Kiya – Care Home Service