Preparing to help older people with winter pressures

As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, Age UK Wyvern gets ready for its busiest time of the year. A combination of rising living costs and the need to stay warm makes financial help more needed than ever, whilst winter can be a lonely season for people who struggle to leave the house.

Age UK Wyvern is expanding its Information & Advice service across Herefordshire, ensuring older people, especially those in rural communities, can easily access the benefits, guidance, and local support they’re entitled to. Over the last three months, the service has helped clients claim a staggering £755,492 in benefits across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Recent pop-up events have taken place in Bromyard, The Hub in Peterchurch and the Revive café at the Christian Life Church in Hereford, offering friendly, face-to-face support for residents who may otherwise struggle to get help with benefits and services. Visitors enjoyed a warm drink and a chance to talk to staff about how to prepare for the problems which winter can bring. Age UK Wyvern’s Leominster office, on the Northern Lights Business Park, also offers regular appointments helping people with benefit checks and applications. Many of those they support have been completely unaware that they could receive any additional help.

Clare Thomas, Age UK Wyvern’s Chief Executive, commented:

“Too many older people tell us they feel forgotten, invisible, a burden to others. The challenges faced by this section of society create a problem hiding in plain sight. Our mission is to change the way people age. From our Home Energy Checks to our outreach sessions, from our benefits advice to our digital support, we won’t let older people face a winter alone. Together, we can bring confidence, connection and care to older people this winter.”

However, the charity relies on support from the public to carry out its essential activities. Age UK Wyvern’s new 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." 

Anyone wanting more information can contact the Age UK Wyvern Information & Advice Team on 0333 0066 299. To make a donation to Age UK Wyvern please click here, or pop into any of our Retail shops and offices. 

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.*