Report from David Ward

Although the festive celebrations are behind us, Age UK Lancashire is highlighting the companionship and support available and is encouraging local older people to start the New Year by getting in touch.

There a number of ways Age UK Lancashire can provide support to older people who may be worried about all sorts of issues to do with getting older from claiming benefits to moving to a care home.

There are also plenty of opportunities for older people in Lancashire to get to know others in their local community through their local Age UK including day centres, exercise classes, walking groups, IT classes and much more.

Stephanie Tufft, Chief Officer of Age UK Lancashire said: “The support we provide can be really life changing, whether it’s information and advice, help with claiming benefits, a weekly visit or telephone call, or a visit to our centre.

Age UK Lancashire also runs a number of events which are a great place to meet new people, learn something new and most importantly have fun especially during these gloomy winter months and dark evenings.

“We have lots going on across Lancashire from a variety of venues for everybody to take part in – whatever your preference, be it line dancing, exercise classes, or
reminiscence, there is plenty of practical support and get-togethers to suit varying needs.”

Lisa, 81, says she felt like a ‘non-person’ with nothing going on in her life following her husband’s death, almost as though she didn’t exist.

“Age UK wrapped their arms around me from the moment I walked in the door. Coming here has literally brought me back to life. I was ready to give up, but these groups give me something to live for and I absolutely love it.”

For more information on what’s happening at Age UK Lancashire click here:
www.ageuklancs.org.uk or call 0300 303 1234. If you’d like to volunteer, donate to or support Age UK Lancashire all this information can be accessed too.

Age UK Lancashire is also looking for support from the local community to help it
become supermarket Morrisons’ next chosen charity of the year. If Age UK is picked it means that it can do even more for thousands of older people and offer vital companionship and advice, things like befriending calls which may be the only
conversation that someone will have all week.

To find out more visit www.ageuk.org.uk/morrisons.