A crisis hiding in plain sight

Age UK warns of crisis as millions of older people braced for a lonely, tough winter.

With the colder months fast approaching, Age UK is warning that older people are facing a Crisis hiding in plain sight.

As the Charity launches its national urgent winter appeal, new research reveals some of the worries older people face as they get set to grapple with the cold weather, rising bills and isolation this winter. Age UK found that a quarter of over 65s (3.5 million) across the whole country are concerned about the coming winter, yet worryingly 1.2 million say they have no one to turn to. The Charity’s campaign will raise awareness of the many issues older people face which are going unseen, and highlight the ways Age UK can help.

Age UK Wyvern offers a helping hand to older people in South Worcestershire and is preparing to help older people stay healthy and well throughout the winter.

Hillary Wainwright is a volunteer who runs a walking group for the charity in Lower Wick. She had this to say about the difference it makes to local people:

“Our group enables people stay to fit and independent for longer, but it’s much more than that.  Many of our members are on their own and it helps them to socialise and make new friends. We meet every Monday morning, go for a walk and enjoy a hot drink afterwards. People often comment that Mondays are the day in the week that they look forward to and that the walk and the company makes them feel better physically and mentally”.

Worcester resident Rob Key has been walking with the group since the beginning of the year. He commented, “

The group gives me a great reason to get out and get some exercise. It’s very sociable as well; friendships are formed and we all swap ideas and share problems”.

However, the charity relies on support from the public to carry out its essential activities. Age UK Wyvern’s Director of Income Generation, Emma Yates, made this plea: 

"Winter can be challenging, but for older people it can feel even harder. That’s why we’re appealing for your support through a donation this winter which could help keep our essential services and activities running for our local communities". 

As well as encouraging support and donations Age UK has also issued a range of tips and advice for older people, their families, friends and carers, who may need support this winter*.