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

You do see your friends and neighbours, all being brought in. It’s a relaxed atmosphere . It means you do feel included in the church family. We’re a very close family and have friends of friends of friends, but the young people, they don’t have anybody . It continued church as I haven’t been so well lately after a fall. My balance is poor and my voice isn’t what it used to be, and I love to sing. I always knew when it was time to get up as I could hear Grandma in the kitchen, she sang.

Liz’s Mum

"You certainly were to me one of life's earth angels. I will never forget the calm that you brought to that moment in my life."

Evelyn, Chaplaincy

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

“thank you for the support and encouragement you have given me over these past months of working as a Wellbeing Volunteer for Dementia. It has been great coming on board, with lots to learn”

Volunteer, Dementia Well-being

"I have just received your VA@Home after a friend recommended it for me. After reading just a couple of pages I know I will enjoy it. It is really lovely, thank you."

On receipt of Vintage Adventure at Home