Getting back out and about

Rhoda gets back out and about with some help from Age UK Islington 

How Rhoda came in contact with Age UK Islington  

Nine years ago when Rhoda moved to London, she came with just her granddaughter. But her granddaughter had her own life and Rhoda was left with the limited connections she had in the area. At the time, Rhoda was quite sick and housebound. Following mailings and newsletters that she received from Age UK Islington, she decided to reach out to receive some support. Following a call to the helpline, she was put in touch with a caseworker and her relationship with the organisation has grown from there.  

Help to start getting out and about 

Since Rhoda has been with Age UK Islington, she has been introduced to a variety of activities hosted by the organisation and partners. The Covid-19 pandemic was a challenging time for everyone, especially those who need a little extra support during the best of times. During this time, Age UK Islington supported Rhoda through virtual activities, phone calls, and even connected her to food support.  

She says Age UK Islington is “Always there if I need support! I know that the Helpline is there if I need to call. Age UK looks out for people who don’t know how they can get help.  They were able to visit me at home to discuss what help I could get for my mobility. It was really useful to get a Taxi Card, as I struggled to get on buses. I am now able to be much more mobile and can attend appointments, activities, visit family safely and comfortably.” More recently, Rhoda has received help with the council too. She explained “These were things I could not do myself. Age UK Islington got the ball rolling and allowed me to move on with my life.”  

Why activities are so much more than just something to do 

In her time with Age UK Islington, Rhoda has tried out different events, and now goes to some regularly. She says, “I have particularly enjoyed the dance classes, Sobell fitness centre activities, and Park Cuppas.  The events are all different from one another and cater to different interests.  There is always a strong social side to the events which is very welcome.”  

The benefits of sharing experiences 

Rhoda is particularly enthusiastic about the Let’s Talk events, “The talks are on Zoom for people like me who have a hard time leaving the house and are sick, but if you go in person, they have support for wheelchairs.” She explains that she learned a lot about all the various benefits available and had a great laugh there too. Further, she explained her favourite part is going to the meetings and proposing a question or inquiry she’s had. For example, she needs a handy man to help with painting, so she can ask her peers! Rhoda says that “You never know maybe someone in the group will know a handy man in the area.” Finally, she says that Age UK Islington is “Great with mailings, so it is very easy to stay informed about what’s on!” 

Some advice for others wondering if they need help...

 “People go through such similar things, and you can get help knowing what people have gone through!” Age UK brings people together to talk about anything they’re going through, whether that be with a helpline advisor, a team leader at an activity, or peers at an event – support is there! Rhoda finally says that “Age UK helps lots of people with different needs, and they are always ready to help. If you know anybody that needs anything, just encourage them to reach out. Age UK Islington will do its best to help with any problem!” 

Staying Well Event, Thursday 20 July, 9.45am - 3pm

For information about help to get out and about in Islington and how to keep independent in your home for longer, find out about our Staying Well event that's taking place next month.

Arsenal will be providing 10min Health MOTs. We’ll have talks, help with form-filling for blue badges and taxicards, gentle exercise sessions, together with free lunch & refreshments.