Leeds AVSED members enjoy first ever overnight break

From community transport and wellbeing groups to social activities, befriending opportunities and dementia support services, the charity's mission has always been simple: helping people age well while reducing loneliness and social isolation.

A spokesperson said: "This summer marked an exciting new chapter in that mission as AVSED organised its first ever overnight holiday, taking 31 members and two staff members on a three-day, two-night break to the beautiful seaside town of Llandudno.

"While AVSED has successfully organised countless day trips over the years, including popular visits to coastal towns, places of interest and local attractions, staff recognised a growing need among members for something more.

"Many members shared that they would love to go on holiday but no longer had anyone to travel with. Others felt they lacked the confidence to organise or undertake a trip independently. Some simply missed the experience of getting away and making new memories.

"Rather than accepting this as an inevitable part of later life, AVSED decided to do something about it."

The result was a carefully planned, fully supported holiday designed to give members the opportunity to enjoy a traditional seaside break while benefiting from the reassurance, companionship and support that AVSED is known for.

The group travelled to Llandudno, staying at a comfortable hotel and enjoying a packed programme of activities, entertainment and opportunities to socialise.

The holiday began with a visit to the Tweedmill Shopping Outlet in St Asaph, where members enjoyed browsing the shops before arriving at the coast.

On the journey home, the group also stopped at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, providing one final opportunity for bargain hunting and a chance to spend more time together before returning home.

The enjoyment started long before reaching the hotel. During the coach journeys, members played bingo, took part in a raffle, shared stories and laughter, and even joined together to sing Happy Birthday to a member who was celebrating during the weekend.

Once in Llandudno, members embraced everything the resort had to offer. Some enjoyed leisurely strolls along the promenade and pier, while others explored the town's shops, cafés and attractions. The spectacular coastal scenery provided a perfect backdrop for relaxation and friendship.

Members had a wonderful time enjoying the hotel's entertainment programme, with many singing along, dancing and making the most of every moment.

The holiday quickly became about much more than simply visiting a seaside town; it became an opportunity to build friendships, create new memories and enjoy experiences together.

One member, aged 93, said: "I hadn't been away for years and wasn't sure I'd ever go on holiday again.

"Walking along the pier, enjoying an ice cream and watching the sea brought back so many happy memories.

"The support from AVSED gave me the confidence to go, and I'm so glad I did. I've made new friends and had a wonderful time."

Another highlight came from a husband and wife who travelled with the group.

"We thoroughly enjoyed every minute," they said.

"The entertainment every evening was brilliant, and we even surprised ourselves by getting up to sing karaoke!

"The whole trip was so well organised, and it was lovely spending time with such a friendly group of people."

Behind the scenes, a great deal of work went into making the holiday possible. AVSED would like to extend its sincere thanks to Ross Travel, particularly driver Graham and his wife Bev, whose kindness, professionalism and support helped ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey throughout.

Special thanks also go to AVSED staff member Ella, who coordinated the holiday, liaised with the hotel, managed the arrangements and worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every member felt comfortable, included and able to enjoy the experience. Thanks are also extended to AVSED Executive Director Debbie for supporting the development of the holiday and helping turn the idea into reality.

While a great deal of planning took place before the holiday, both Ella and Debbie also travelled with the group, spending the three days supporting members, sharing in the activities, joining conversations, creating memories and helping ensure everyone could relax and enjoy themselves. Their presence reflected AVSED's commitment to providing not just practical support, but genuine companionship and community, allowing members to enjoy the holiday with confidence while having plenty of fun along the way.

Reflecting on the trip, Ella said: "For many of our members, this was more than just a holiday.

"It was an opportunity to regain confidence, make new memories and enjoy experiences that they perhaps thought were no longer possible.

"Seeing friendships grow, hearing laughter throughout the trip and watching people relax and enjoy themselves made all the planning worthwhile. We're incredibly proud to have made this happen and are already looking forward to future holidays."

The success of the holiday demonstrates something that AVSED sees every day: ageing well is about far more than simply staying physically healthy. It is about maintaining confidence, independence, friendships, purpose and a sense of belonging.

AVSED helps hundreds of local people remain active and engaged within their communities. Whether it is attending a weekly group, enjoying a day trip, receiving support to get to appointments, making new friends or, now, even enjoying a supported holiday, AVSED is committed to helping people live life to the fullest.

The overwhelming success of the Llandudno holiday has already generated excitement among members, with many hoping it will be the first of many overnight breaks in the years ahead.

For AVSED, however, the real success was not measured in miles travelled or attractions visited. It was found in the smiles, laughter, friendships and renewed confidence that members brought home with them.

The spokesperson added: "This first overnight holiday perfectly demonstrates what AVSED is all about.

"By listening to members, responding to their needs and creating opportunities for people to stay connected, active and involved, the charity continues to help local people age well and enjoy life on their own terms.

"Whether it's a weekly group, a day trip, a community transport journey, a dementia support session or a seaside holiday with friends, AVSED believes that nobody should feel isolated and that everyone deserves opportunities to make new memories, whatever their age."

AVSED membership is free and open to anyone aged 60 and over living across Yeadon, Guiseley, Rawdon and the surrounding areas who would like to stay active, connected and involved in their community.

To find out more about becoming a member, accessing services or taking part in activities, groups, trips and events, please get in touch.

The charity is also always keen to hear from people who would like to volunteer. Opportunities include community transport drivers, passenger assistants, group volunteers, event support, befriending and many other rewarding roles.

Whether you can spare an hour a month or several hours a week, volunteering with AVSED is a fantastic way to make a difference in your local community while meeting new people, sharing your skills and helping older people remain active and connected.

To find out more about membership or volunteering, contact AVSED on 0113 250 1702, email [email protected] or visit www.avsed.org.uk.

Because growing older should never mean growing isolated, and at AVSED, community is at the heart of everything we do.