Our Mission
Silver brings joy, creativity and connection to older people through welcoming community groups and thoughtfully designed craft care packs. Our aim is simple: to reduce loneliness and create moments of happiness, creativity and connection for older people in our communities. Through shared activities and meaningful interaction, we create spaces where people feel valued, included and part of something special.
Why Silver exists
Loneliness among older people is one of the most significant yet often unseen challenges in our communities. Many people experience increased isolation as they grow older, particularly after retirement, illness, reduced mobility or the loss of loved ones. Regular social contact can become limited, and opportunities to connect with others may disappear. Silver was created to help change that. By creating welcoming social spaces and delivering creative activity packs, Silver helps older people reconnect with others, rediscover creativity and experience the joy of shared moments.
What we do
Silver runs friendly community gatherings where seniors come together to enjoy craft activities, conversation and refreshments in a warm and welcoming environment. Our groups provide a relaxed space where people can meet others, learn something new and enjoy time together. No previous craft experience is needed, the focus is simply on connection, creativity and companionship.
Craft Care Packs
Silver distributes creative craft care packs across the UK. Rather than sending packs directly to individuals, we work in partnership with organisations such as The Salvation Army and Age UK, who help distribute the packs within their communities. We also provide packs to care homes and community organisations supporting older people, helping ensure they reach people who may benefit most from a creative activity and a reminder that someone is thinking of them. Each pack contains materials and simple instructions designed to bring creativity, enjoyment and a moment of connection.
Our Impact
Since Silver began, we have been proud to make a meaningful difference in the lives of older people.
- 17,000+ activity packs distributed across the UK
- 23 dedicated volunteers supporting our work
- Regular community groups bringing people together.
Every conversation, every smile and every craft created represents a moment of connection that helps reduce loneliness.
Our founder
Silver was founded by Lisa Powis, who wanted to create simple but meaningful ways to bring joy and connection to older people in the community. After seeing how powerful small moments of creativity and conversation can be, Lisa created Silver to offer welcoming spaces where older people could come together, share experiences and enjoy creative activities in a relaxed environment. What began as a small local initiative has grown into a community supported by dedicated volunteers, delivering groups and craft care packs that brighten the lives of older people across the UK. Silver continues to grow thanks to the kindness and commitment of the people who support its mission
Our Trustees
Our trustees come from a range of backgrounds but share a common goal — to bring connection, support and joy to older people in our community
Lisa Powis
Founder Trustee
Lisa has over 30 years’ experience in the insurance industry and now mentors businesses and sits on advisory boards. She founded Painting Our World in Silver in 2016 and is passionate about bringing connection and creativity to older people in the community.
Steven Harland Chairman
Steven is an advisor to the UK Government and has been Chairman of Painting Our World in Silver for the past 10 years. He is dedicated to reducing loneliness and social isolation among older people and supports the trustees in delivering the charity’s mission.
Kicki Carlsson
Treasurer
Kicki has supported the charity for many years and became Treasurer in 2019. Originally from Sweden and now based in Hampshire, she is a strong advocate for mental wellbeing and believes deeply in the charity’s role in tackling loneliness.
Our Trustees
Jane Ellender
Trustee
Jane has been a trustee since 2018 and has a long history of voluntary work, from supporting literacy programmes to helping vulnerable groups. She is a warm and dedicated presence and is much loved by the Whitely group.
Emily McPherson Trustee
Emily is a professional indemnity underwriter and has supported the charity for over 10 years. Living in London, she is deeply committed to the charity’s mission and plays an active role in all fundraising and helping the charity grow its reach and impact..
Henry McPherson
Trustee
Head of Digital and Fundraising. Henry is a financial advisor and has been involved with the charity for over 10 years. Based in London, he is committed to supporting initiatives that help reduce loneliness and strengthen community connections.
Recognition
Lisa Powis, the founder of Silver, has been recognised with the award of the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the community supporting Seniors. This recognition reflects the dedication of our volunteers and the positive impact Silver has made in the lives of so many people.
Location
Village Hall
Whiteley Village
Octagon Road
Hersham
Surrey
KT12 4EG
