A new Christmas campaign aims to spotlight the isolation felt by older adults.
- Yorkshire producers collaborate with renowned animators for a moving ad.
- Re-engage’s initiative focuses on reducing loneliness among the elderly.
- The advert showcases Re-engage’s impactful services for those aged 75 and over.
- Creative experts from famous animations join hand for this meaningful project.
In a heartfelt Christmas campaign, a Yorkshire production house has teamed up with famous animators from the likes of Shaun the Sheep and Paddington. Their collaborative effort aims to highlight the often-overlooked issue of isolation among the elderly, through a film created for the charity, Re-engage.
Re-engage, a charity dedicated to countering loneliness in those aged 75 and over, has partnered with Wetherby-based Reel Film. This collaboration was formed after a competitive pitch process, bringing together experienced creative minds to produce an impactful fundraising advert.
The team includes storyboard veteran David Bunting and animator Tom Stratford. Bunting is known for his work with Aardman Animations on projects like Shaun the Sheep and Wallace and Gromit, while Stratford contributed to the second series of The Adventures of Paddington. Their involvement has brought significant expertise and creativity to the campaign.
Celebrating its 60th anniversary next year, Re-engage supports 7,000 older individuals across the UK through free tea parties, activity groups, and call befriending services, all managed by a network of 9,000 volunteers.
Adam Chandler, the founder of Reel Film, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating that working with such seasoned professionals was both exciting and rewarding. He emphasized the importance of illustrating the devastating impact of loneliness and showcasing the positive role Re-engage plays in alleviating it.
The campaign revolves around a two-minute animation titled ‘Friendship: The Perfect Present for Peter.’ It tells the story of an elderly man named Peter, who finds new social connections through Re-engage’s services, specifically the free tea parties and call befriending initiatives.
Colette Mullings, head of marketing and communications at Re-engage, praised the collaborative efforts, noting the project beautifully encapsulates how their support services assist older adults like Peter. Her sentiment echoed the broader mission to inspire others to engage in similar humanitarian efforts.
Animator Tom Stratford expressed hope that the film would encourage more people to donate or volunteer, shining a light on Re-engage’s vital work. Storyboard artist David Bunting shared a similar wish, noting how important it was to contrast the typical holiday commercials with a message addressing the harsh reality faced by many during this season.
This thoughtful campaign effectively raises awareness around the critical issue of elderly loneliness and encourages communal responsibility.
