Copyright dailyrecord
The life-improving impact of a charity’s work with older people in West Lothian has been celebrated. About 30 of Food Train’s members, volunteers and staff gathered for the organisation’s annual general meeting - along with a spot of lunch - in Livingston. And they heard personal stories of how the lives of older people throughout the region had been made better by the shopping, befriending, meal-making and other services which are delivered week in, week out. They included moving testimonies of how volunteers have helped improve older peoples’ health and wellbeing in so many ways - including encouraging them to rediscover the confidence to leave their homes and forging friendships. Lorna Farquhar, Food Train’s regional manager for West Lothian, spoke about the charity’s work with about 280 people across the region, supported by 88 volunteers. She said: “What we do isn’t just about groceries and meals. It’s about building trust and making people in our region realise that they are not alone. “There are people out there who need our support. Our wonderful volunteers ensure that they have that in so many ways. “Food Train is so much more than just a shopping service. What our volunteers do makes a difference to older peoples’ health, wellbeing and independence. None of what we do would be possible without them.” The AGM, held at Carmondean Community Centre, was the first ever to be held outside of Dumfries, where the charity was founded 30 years ago before expanding. As part of the event, flowers were presented to Linlithgow resident Anne Borthwick and to Rose Quinn, from West Calder, to recognise their long-standing membership of Food Train. Volunteer Lesley Martin also received flowers for her long service. The meeting was an opportunity for members not only to hear about the work that the charity does locally, but nationally. Chair Alan Dalziel and chief executive Rosie McLuskie chatted with members from across the region as they reflected on the past 12 months and looked ahead to the charity’s future. Food Train’s services help ease pressures on health and social care services by preventing the health problems that can stem from malnourishment and loneliness. Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here .
