The Silver Line - Visiting Gramps - (2014) :45 (UK)

The clip here features an older man called Leslie Rocker, who is actually a Silver Line caller himself, getting ready for Christmas. At the same time a younger family are seen to be playing and wrapping up presents. While the story evolves here, we fully expect the young family to be visiting the older man. But.... the video ends with Leslie looking out of the window as the younger family go next door, highlighting his loneliness.

The charity was set up by British journalist and television presenter, Esther Rantzen and the campaign is targeted at people who donate at Christmas – in particularly people who value getting together with their families and friends at this time of year.

Esther Rantzen, the Founder and President at The Silver Line, said: “We knew loneliness existed in this country, but the extent of this epidemic of loneliness and isolation suffered by people over 65 has shocked and alarmed us. We wanted to use a real example showcasing the important work we do to influence others to take note.”
Jason Lawes, Creative Director at M&C Saatchi, added: “This is a powerful campaign for an incredibly important cause. When people come together with family and friends this Christmas it’s vital to remember those who are lonely.”

In addition to the only free confidential helpline for older people which is open 24/7, The Silver Line has trained more than 850 volunteers to become Silver Line Friends, making regular befriending calls to more than 1100 older people. The Silver Line has set up Silver Circles, conference calls for several like-minded people who want to chat in a group and Silver Letters for people who like to write and receive hand-written letters and who may be hearing impaired.

Agency : M&C Saatchi
Agency contact job title : Account Director
Copywriter : Gary Arnold
Art director : Neil Ritchie
Planner/CSU Director : Katarina Tencor
Creative Director : Jason Lawes
Agency Producer : Sue Cooke
Designer : Jonathan Muddell
Photographer : Liam Ricketts
Production company : Smuggler
Director : Chris Thomas
Audio Post Production : Soho Square Studios, Mark Hill
Post Production : Framestore
Exposure (media channels) : Online