Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire Announces Closure Due to Financial Challenges

We are devastated to announce that Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire will close its doors on 30th September 2024.

Regretfully, due to severe financial challenges, including rising operating costs and diminishing funding opportunities it is no longer viable for the charity to continue offering services.

“We are extremely saddened and disappointed that it has come to this,” said our CEO, Julia Neal.

"We know that our clients will be concerned about what this news means for them and we are in the process of making contact to ensure that they know what arrangements will be in place for them."

“Last year we supported more than 15,000 older people across our two counties, which had a significant impact on their lives. As a charity which makes a significant contribution to the work of the wider health and care system, we have continued to support some of the most vulnerable older people at a time when they most need that support. However, this commitment has meant that we have become increasingly vulnerable to the challenges faced by providers delivering commissioned services."

"We are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our beneficiaries and donors over the years and understand that this news is upsetting for everyone involved. Our number one priority is ensuring that older people in the area are supported in the best way possible, and we are working hard to facilitate a smooth transition to alternative support.”

The closure will affect many older individuals who rely on our services, as well as the dedicated staff, volunteers, funders, and other stakeholders who have supported the charity’s work over the years.

During the last year alone, we made a substantial difference in the local community by helping older people access £1.4 million in previously unclaimed benefits, conducting 371 free home energy checks, and assisting 1,086 people in safely returning home after a hospital stay.

We are in the process of contacting those people to provide guidance and support during this difficult time, as well as working closely with Age UK Brand Partners, other local charities and Age UK, the national charity to ensure that as many clients as possible continue to receive the support that they need.

In the meantime, anyone with concerns can contact us on 0800 008 6077.

Older people or their families seeking advice and support can also reach out to the Age UK national advice line on 0800 169 6565.