Skip to content

Access 2 Advice: Supporting Older People in Thetford

Published on 10 March 2026 10:42 AM

Thanks to funding from the East of England Co-op, Age UK Norfolk delivered the Access 2 Advice programme for people aged 50+ in Thetford, providing practical support, information, and guidance on benefits, social care, and later life planning.

Over the project, we:

  • Delivered 40 in-depth benefit appointments, including home visits.
  • Held 12 community events at Thetford Library and Norfolk MIND’s Rest Hub.
  • Provided advice on Lasting Power of Attorney, local activities, and welfare entitlements.

The programme reached 85 older people, many aged 75+ and living with complex health conditions. Working in trusted, familiar spaces helped participants navigate systems with confidence.

The impact has been tangible:

  • £154,397.36 in benefits successfully claimed, helping people afford essentials.
  • Increased confidence in managing finances and accessing support.
  • Stronger community connections through events and partnerships.

“Advice services like this don’t just help people complete forms; they unlock support people are entitled to, reduce anxiety, and help individuals feel less alone.”

 
- Angela Carpenter from the East of England Co-op Community Cares Fund team.

Age UK Norfolk would like to thank The Norfolk Community Foundation and the East of England Co-Op Community Cares Fund for making this project possible.

Building on this success, we will continue our presence at Thetford Library and explore additional services, such as Blue Badge support, to ensure older people in the area can access the help they need.