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1.2 million older people like Syd often feel lonely.

Age UK can make a vital difference to people like Syd. Watch his video to see how, thanks to our supporters, we’ve helped him turn things around.

Like so many older people living in the UK, Syd knows how terrible loneliness can be. After his wife’s death, Syd struggled on alone - with only his memories for company. 

In the video above, he explains how Age UK helped him find meaningful friendship and connection again.

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225,000 older people often go a week without speaking to anyone.

By the time they reach out for help, many older people have reached a crisis point and feel incredibly alone. 

Everyone needs someone to talk to or share a story with. Everyone deserves to know that someone cares. No one should have to overcome loneliness alone. 

Age UK is working hard to reach more older people like Syd with essential services.

By coming together, Age UK services can help make a world of difference to lonely older people, like Syd. £10 could help answer two calls to the Age UK Advice Line from some of the most vulnerable older people.

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Our vital work is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters.

I have learnt so much from Syd and find his stories fascinating. I think in a world where it can seem incredibly lonely and isolating, especially with the impact of COVID, the Age UK Telephone Friendship Service shows people that someone cares about them and is committed to doing something for them, which is incredibly uplifting.

I have learnt so much from Syd and find his stories fascinating. I think in a world where it can seem incredibly lonely and isolating, especially with the impact of COVID, the Age UK Telephone Friendship Service shows people that someone cares about them and is committed to doing something for them, which is incredibly uplifting.

Lisa, Syd's telephone friend

Together, we can make a life-changing difference. In 2021:

Friendship

We supported 180,573 telephone friendship calls to lonely and isolated older people.

Advice

The Age UK Advice Line answered 205,796 calls for help and support.

Information

We sent out 509,735 guides and factsheets covering over 50 topics ranging from social care to cold weather advice.

I’m getting better with the help of Age UK. I know the care’s there and it’s a wonderful thing. I now know life’s worth living.

I’m getting better with the help of Age UK. I know the care’s there and it’s a wonderful thing. I now know life’s worth living.

Syd, 89

Please help us be there for more older people like Syd

Your support today could make a world of difference to someone experiencing loneliness.

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