They've Been A Real Lifeline: Joy's Age UK Islington Journey

 

After 20 years in employment, Joy found herself facing an unexpected change in her circumstances and wanted to find out what support was available locally.

 

“When I needed support, I didn’t know where to turn. Age UK Islington helped me to get the support that I needed, and they would follow up with me, asking, ‘Have you done this yet, Joy? Have you done the other?’ They were there for me.”

 

Age UK Islington also helped Joy find ways to look after her own wellbeing and stay connected. The team introduced her to Claremont Community Centre, which offers a wide range of activities and opportunities to meet other people locally.

 

Joy has not been able to attend as much recently because of her caring responsibilities, but she says the support and connections she has found in her local community have been an important part of her journey.

 

During her time away from work, Joy focused on her wellbeing and developing new skills. She completed a number of courses and used the time to think about what she wanted to do next.

 

“Within one year I had recouped my health and increased my skills, which opened up new career possibilities.”

 

Hillside Clubhouse also supported Joy with her job search. With their encouragement, she applied for a new role building on her personal experience and recent studies.

 

She is now preparing to start work as a support worker with young adults experiencing mental health problems. The role is full-time and represents an exciting new chapter for Joy.

 

“I am a strong Christian. I believe that life presents us challenges for a reason. I thought, ‘Let me give myself a try.’ I prayed to get the job and I am so happy to have done so.”

 

Age UK Islington has also helped Joy and her husband navigate the support available to them.

 

The team helped Joy and her husband apply for Attendance Allowance, a benefit she had never heard of before. An Age UK Islington adviser supported them through the application process and helped them understand and answer the questions.

 

“I didn’t even know that this existed, and we’re really grateful for the help.”

 

Age UK Islington also helped Joy and her husband put Lasting Powers of Attorney in place, helping them plan for the future.

 

“It was a big relief to get it done and it’s given us peace of mind.”

 

For Joy, having someone to talk to, help her understand her options and follow up with her has made a real difference.

 

“Our community is rich with resources and support provided by the Borough of Islington, for us to access in time of difficulties or when life is beyond our imagination.”

 

Joy has now become an Age UK Islington campaigner, sharing her experience and telling others about the organisation.

 

“When I was first off work, I didn’t know about any of the support and organisations that there are locally to help people in my situation.”

 

Now, Joy makes sure people know about Age UK Islington so they can find out about the wider support and services available locally.

 

“I always let anyone who’s in need of some support know about Age UK Islington. They’ve been really positive in my life and a real lifeline at the times I’ve needed support.”

 

For Joy, finding Age UK Islington has helped her through a challenging period, reconnect with her community and discover new possibilities for the future.

And now, she is helping other people find the support they need too.