Socially isolated older people received thoughtful surprise gifts this Valentine’s, after local employee volunteers came together to write kindness cards and assemble treat packs filled with heart-shaped chocolates and hand cream.

The activity, organised as part of the Marble Arch Community Programme and kindly hosted by Victory Services Club on 12 February 2026, brought together 23 volunteers from Adams Street Partners, Almacantar, Bluewater, Hilton London Metropole, Tate & Lyle, and The Prince Akatoki. Completing the activity during their lunch break, volunteers worked side by side to create personalised packages designed to let older residents know they are valued and remembered.

Loneliness remains a significant issue for older people. According to research by Age UK, nearly one million older people in the UK say they often feel lonely. Social isolation can have a profound impact on wellbeing, contributing to poor physical health, reduced confidence, and a sense of invisibility.

Volunteers crafted handwritten cards filled with uplifting messages such as: “Roses are red, violets are blue, you make the world better just being you.” Each treat pack included heart-shaped chocolates and luxurious hand cream, while some volunteers part-completed colourful drawings, inviting recipients to add the finishing touches themselves, creating a simple but meaningful shared activity.

The bags were decorated with heart stickers and finished with delicate handmade tissue-paper roses, adding a thoughtful final touch. Once assembled, the gifts were delivered to Penfold Community Hub for distribution across its network to those who would most appreciate them.

Thank you to every volunteer who gave their time, creativity and care to make the initiative such a success.

The activity was arranged as part of our Community Programme which supports Marble Arch BID members to engage in the community. From environmental projects to skill-sharing to coffee mornings, there is something to suit every community engagement plan which create memorable moments and sustainable impact.