Carol Service at Guildford Cathedral

The local economy

Our event attracted a large number of people who booked to have lunch after the service in the Refectory restaurant, and some visited the onsite gift shop to purchase Christmas presents which helped the local economy.

Volunteering, jobs & education

We were approached by employees of several corporate businesses who wanted to do something beneficial for others in the run up to Christmas. They helped to welcome guests, served refreshments, showed people to their seats, helped people into the building particularly those who arrived from Care Homes in a coach or minibus and needed extra help with gaining access into the building with a wheelchair or needing a supportive arm . Another local volunteer group helped in the car park directing people into spaces. Our own Age UK Surrey volunteers were on hand to set up the refreshments, distribute service programmes, talk to visitors and tidy up at the end of the service,

Activity, health and leisure

Our event helped to promote an enjoyable activity for a wide audience particularly for those who were may not have been able to attend another carol service due to older age, mobility issues and accessibility. The social interaction and engagement with the event may have helped people, particularly those who were living alone or not able to go out often, to combat depression, anxiety and feelings of loneliness and isolation. The event was very uplifting and everyone was engaged with listening to the music, choirs, and they joined in singing the familiar Christmas Carols.