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An older man phones someone at night

Donate now to fight loneliness

You can make a difference to an older person this Christmas and all year round.

1 million older people are more isolated at Christmas than any other time of the year

Most people won’t see how bad it really gets. They won’t realise what goes on behind closed doors – the days spent alone, in silence. They won’t know that the phone never rings – not even on Christmas Day.

360,000 older people aged 65+ in England go a week without speaking to a friend or family member

Lonely older people are about 25% more likely to develop dementia

By 2030 there will be 130,000 more over 65s who often or always feel lonely if we don’t act now

Growing older should never mean becoming less visible, less valued or less involved in the world around you.

At Age UK, we refuse to accept older people being written off.

Together, we can bring comfort and connection to older people facing loneliness.

Friendship

From our 24/7 Silver Line Helpline to local in-person befriending services, we're here whenever an older person needs us. 

Advice

Our expert Advice Line provides reliable, up-to-date information and advice on everything from health to housing, and helps people access the support and services they need.

Support

Whether it's a local lunch club, transport to get to a day centre or a weekly exercise class, the Age UK Network provides essential services that help people feel confident and connected again.

This Christmas, you can help someone like Sandra

Sandra lost her husband, Don, after 43 years together. As she adjusted to life on her own, she found the grief and loneliness overwhelming.

Thankfully, Sandra found Age UK's Friendship Service and was matched with volunteer befriender Sarena. Their weekly chats have become a source of comfort, companionship and support through difficult times.

“I don't know what I'd have done without Sarena. She kept me going in those very bad days.”

Feeling lonely?

If you or someone you know is feeling lonely, you're not alone. We have a free guide full of information and practical tips to help, from other people who've been there too.

Download your guide

Will you help us?

It will take all of us, working together and speaking out, to change the way older people are treated in the UK - today and in the future. 

Donate

Your donation can support services that are fighting loneliness across the UK – from telephone friendship, to home visits and social activities.

Age UK campaigns

Campaign

By standing together, we can make the UK a better place to grow older in the future – one where every older person is supported, included and valued.

Volunteer

Our incredible volunteers are change-makers, keeping our services running night and day. Could you be one of them?

Let’s solve the crisis people don't see. Let's change how we age. 

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