Born in Westmorland, George Kipling lived and farmed at Burgh by Sands. He was a man who cared about his community and rural life, and in particular had a concern for the welfare of children and older people. As he was a widower with no children, he decided to leave £120,000 of his estate to charity. In 2000, the executors of his will agreed the best way to fulfil his wishes was to establish two funds at the Foundation, one benefiting children and young people, and the other the elderly throughout Cumbria.

“George would be very pleased if he could see the difference that he is making to the lives of people in Cumbria, and to know that his gift will go on making a difference for a very long time,” said Ian Brown from Dodd & Co.

Social isolation has become a real problem for older people living within our communities – some can go days or even weeks without a meaningful social interaction. Bishop’s Close in Carlisle provides sheltered and supported housing for older people. The Social Fund is run by volunteers to address loneliness and isolation by establishing social events for both those living within Bishop’s Close and those within the wider community.

The group had already established regular outings and coffee mornings but wanted to develop its activities further by starting a Sunday luncheon club, and received £1,500 from the Kipling Fund for Older People.

The luncheon club has been a resounding success and even those who have not previously participated in other events have enjoyed the experience and have forged valuable friendships.