FOR Britain’s ageing population, loneliness can be a daily reality – and this can be especially acute with men. And yet something as simple as going fishing can make a huge difference, as a pioneering new project clearly shows.
“We definitely need more activities for men – and fishing is perfect,” says Age UK Somerset’s Ageing Well Manager, Becky Bostock, who has been delighted by the success of a new group run in partnership with HMS Heron Coarse Angling Club.
“Whether it’s yoga, gym or dance groups, the interest tends to come from women. Men worry that they’ll look silly or be the only bloke there,” said Becky. “Ask them to go fishing and it’s a different story! There’s no pressure to perform. It’s so peaceful, and you can chat away or just do your own thing.”
“The benefits are huge”
Becky hadn’t considered an angling group before, but that all changed when kind-hearted Royal Naval Petty Officer Adam Chamberlain suggested that a group might like to use a forces-owned lake.
But who could lead the sessions? Immediately Becky thought of her father, Steve, who is both an Age UK Somerset volunteer and an angler.
“My dad is talkative, and brought people together quickly,” she said. “Even so, we were surprised how much everyone opened up! The relaxed environment definitely helps, and the men were willing to talk about their lives – and their experiences of loneliness and boredom.
“They also love showing me what they’ve caught. I’m already learning all the lingo and fish names. The benefits are huge, and it’s also been great for my dad, who has got right back into fishing. I think we might have saved him from golf!
“The fact that group members keep coming back is the best feedback of all,” added Becky. “We always try to look to the long term, and some of our groups have been running for 30 years.”
“It went nuts!”
It was Adam Chamberlain at RNAS Yeovilton who saw the potential in the HMS Heron Angling Club’s scenic local fishery. “We had an elderly regular called Barry who absolutely loved the place,” said Adam. “You could clearly see what it meant, because he was a different person by the water. That made me think fishing could work for others.
“When Covid hit home, the impact was brutal, especially on the elderly. The couple across the road from me were stuck on their own, and it was heartbreaking to see. I wondered what else I could do. Our lake is quiet during the week, so why not get people together on the bank?”
Becky reckoned it was a great idea, and so they came up with a plan. What they hadn’t anticipated was the sheer impact it would have.
“It’s a magical old English lake and it’s so peaceful,” said Adam. “We let the group on for free and, as far as I’m concerned, they’re doing us a favour by feeding the fish and keeping an eye on the water.”
Above all, it was the mood of the group that impressed him. “In no time at all, everyone was laughing and sharing banter. The regulars love helping out and chatting to the old guys, too, and it gives me so much joy to see. It went nuts after that! The Royal Navy media team came down from London. Next, we had the BBC and local papers!”
While so-called ‘Green Space Therapy’ is on the up, using activities like angling to directly address social isolation in the elderly is in its infancy. But the results speak for themselves.
Becky tells us that they’ve already been contacted by another fishery. And, with more groups and social prescribing initiatives now likely, could angling be just the tonic for communities all over the UK?
HOW CAN I HELP? KEY TAKEAWAYS
A few key lessons stand out a mile from Age UK Somerset’s success. Perhaps there’s someone you know who would love some fishing, or could be able to help?
ACCESS IS KEY – Lots of elderly anglers struggle with mobility. Having accessible swims close together, and easy parking close by, is a big help.
KEEP IT AFFORDABLE – Sessions in Somerset cost just £3 to cover transport and bait. This can be significant to pensioners with limited disposable income.
REACH OUT – There’s often help or funding available if we’re prepared to ask. Many fisheries will listen, while groups like the Angling Trust and local councils are often highly supportive when it comes to activities that boost community wellbeing.
ANYONE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE – Organised groups do some wonderful work, but anyone can do their bit as an individual! Most of us will know an older person who would love to go fishing again, while you could also consider volunteering, or making a donation to support Age UK. Visit www.ageuk.org.uk to find out more about the vital work going on in your area.
