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A collage of portraits of Roy, Amrita and Marjorie - three older people

More than 850,000 older people could be spending this Christmas alone

At Age UK, we’re working hard to relieve the isolation and despair felt by so many – but it’s only possible with the support of people like you.  

Every year, millions of older people depend on Age UK for practical and emotional support. Before the outbreak of coronavirus, we were already facing a loneliness epidemic amongst older people. As a result of the pandemic, this crisis has intensified.

For many thousands of older people, this Christmas will be the loneliest of their lives. Now more than ever, we need to be here with essential support for vulnerable and isolated older people though this challenging period. Now more than ever, we must not fail those who need us most.

Share our film with your friends and show why older people must not be forgotten this Christmas.

Thousands of older people know all too well what it’s like to be alone at this time of year.

For people like Roy and Amrita, who’ve lost their partners, Christmas can feel like just another day. For others like Marjorie, who are struggling with health problems on their own, a Christmas with the threat of coronavirus looming is something they’ll dread.

“I'd like to go to sleep Christmas eve and not wake up until New Year’s Day and miss the whole thing.” – Marjorie, 98

Thankfully for older people like Roy, Amrita and Marjorie, Age UK is here to help. We’ve arranged for all 3 to receive weekly calls from befrienders as part of our Telephone Friendship Service. For older people experiencing loneliness, these calls are nothing short of a lifeline.

“It’s  lovely to be able to just talk to someone, especially as I love to chat. I look forward to the calls very much.” – Roy, 80

Without support, thousands of older people will have no one this Christmas. Now more than ever, we must show our older generation that they’re not forgotten.

“Loneliness is awful. It  can make you feel trapped. But with Age UK’s help, it can become more bearable.” – Amrita, 92

Thanks to donations from the public, we're helping older people through these challenging times. Here's how:

Heart icon Did you know the Age UK Advice Line is open 365 days a year, including Christmas day?

We provide answers and reassurance to older people when they need it most - 96% of callers say we make a difference. Over the festive period, we'll be here every day for those who have no one else, giving help such as financial advice for how to stay warm through winter.

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We’re here for you too

If you or someone you know needs support, Age UK is here for you. Call the Age UK Advice Line on 0800 169 6565, 8am to 7pm, every day of the year, or find information and advice on our website.

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