Property management company Ross and Liddell is partnering with Age Scotland to deliver a special Christmas gift to older people across the country.

The firm has linked up with the charity to launch a new 12 Days of Christmas campaign to provide 12 older persons’ groups with funding for festive events.

The scheme is open to Age Scotland member organisations across Glasgow and Edinburgh with groups being invited to apply for a grant of up to £500 to cover a range of festive activities.

The money could be used for room hire and refreshments, speakers and entertainers, transport to and from outings, tickets for pantomimes and Christmas gifts.

Ross and Liddell managing director, Irene Devenny, said: “We manage properties all over Scotland and our property managers meet older residents every day. Social isolation is often a significant issue and one which Age Scotland works tirelessly to alleviate in communities all over Scotland.

“That is why we are very proud to be joining forces with Age Scotland to make Christmas a little brighter for older men and women across Glasgow and Edinburgh.

“Although held at Christmas time, the memories these activities help create will last forever.

“We hope that our support of 12 Days of Christmas will help make Christmas a time of togetherness for older people.”

To be in with a chance of securing funding, groups will have to demonstrate how they tackle loneliness and isolation within their communities, and how they benefit a wide range of older people.

Age Scotland chief executive, Brian Sloan, said: “We want every older person to have the opportunity to make and maintain friends and connections as this can really help with keeping healthy and enjoying life.

“Christmas can be a very difficult time for older people so it’s important that there’s a support network there to ensure that older people are kept active – mentally, physically and socially.

“The funding from Ross and Liddell will help 12 groups host their own fantastic Christmas celebrations and we’re very grateful for the company’s support.”