This Christmas, ScotRail staff will bring joy and support to older people across Scotland through donations they have made to Age Scotland’s ‘Big Gift Appeal’.

ScotRail staff have donated an incredible 153 gifts to the Big Gift Appeal, which aims to brighten Christmas for the many older people who may feel isolated or alone during the festive period.

Research carried out by Age Scotland shows that more than 64,000 older people say that this Christmas they will have no-one with whom they can exchange cards or gifts.

However, through the generosity of ScotRail and its employees, many older people will receive dozens of thoughtful gifts that Age Scotland will distribute.

As well as helping to combat their loneliness, the gifts will go a small way to reminding them that they are valued and not alone.

Through its partnership with Age Scotland, ScotRail seeks to raise the public’s awareness of issues that affect older people, such as the feeling of loneliness and being isolated, and to contribute to much-needed support through fundraising and other community initiatives.

ScotRail staff regularly enter partnerships with charities to raise much-needed funds. In the last year they have taken part in the Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign to help support people with mental health challenges and raised money for defibrillators.

The Christmas period can be a difficult time for many older people. Tracy Stevenson from ScotRail’s Community Rail Executive says it’s heartwarming to see the teams come together to make a positive difference, and although each gift donated may be a small gesture, it will mean so much to those receiving them.

“These wonderful gifts will be gratefully received by older people across Scotland who may not otherwise have much, if anything, for under the Christmas tree. It’s so sad to think that on most of the streets in Scotland there will be an older person who doesn’t have anyone else in their life to exchange a gift or card with this year. ScotRail staff have been very thoughtful, and it will show that acts of kindness like this can go a very long way indeed. Our partnership really does mean a lot to us and we know that by working together we will be able to help many more older people who are lonely and isolated.”

Katherine Crawford, Chief Executive of Age Scotland

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