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Last year, over 10 million people trusted us to help them with some of the biggest issues in their lives. Learn more about how we help.
Here's how, with your support, Age UK is supporting older people through the cost of living crisis.
As the cost of living remains sky-high, so many older people are facing the painful choice between eating and staying warm this winter – and don't know where to turn for help.
For those who live alone, or who have health conditions that make it difficult to leave the house, winter can be even more isolating. And when there's no one to discuss concerns or find solutions with, challenges can become overwhelming.
11.3 million people
aged over 50 in the UK found it difficult to afford their energy bills last year
Over 4 million
older people live alone
40% of people over 50
didn't think they'd be able to save any money last year
But with your help, Age UK can be there to offer support when it's needed most.
This winter, Age UK can be there with advice, friendship and support – like we have been for James and Peter.
James, 72, lives with Parkinson's disease, and needs to stay warm to prevent his symptoms from worsening. But the cost of living crisis has left him struggling to afford heating bills and groceries, alongside paying for his essential daily care visits.
“I just want to stay warm. If I don't, I'll freeze. But I struggle with my bills.”
Peter, 87, lives on his own, and has mobility issues that make it difficult to leave the house. As energy costs have soared, Peter has worried that he can't afford to stay warm – and has even feared losing his home – but felt there was nowhere to turn for support.
“It's hard to ask for help. You just suffer it alone, feeling as if you've done something wrong.”
Age UK provides expert advice, practical support, crucial friendship, and campaigns to ensure older people's voices are heard on key issues. Only with the help of our supporters can we continue to be there for everyone who needs us, whatever the challenge.
150,000 calls
were answered by the Age UK Advice Line, offering guidance and support
Over 8 million
visits were made to our Information and Advice pages
£14 million
in unclaimed benefits was identified for older callers by Age UK
Age UK provides a range of services and your gift will go wherever the need is greatest.