History

Age UK North Craven, formerly Age Concern North Craven, was established in 1987 as a result of recognition, in the area that older people had many needs that were not being met by existing services and organisations. Having formed a Management Committee and achieved charitable status, the founders decided to establish a funding base by opening a charity shop in the market town of Settle. This continues as both a popular community hub and significant generator of income to support Age UK North Craven’s services.

The organisation is registered with the Charity Commission No. 1141867 and as a Company Limited by Guarantee no. 7609423

The organisation started by offering social activities, befriending, and a car scheme. These were funded from the organisation’s own resources. In 1992 a Relief Care Service was added and, for the first time, major funding from statutory services was received.

In order to continue to access funding from North Yorkshire County Council, supporting our preventive services for older people, Age UK North Craven has worked with other Age UKs in North Yorkshire and with Age Concern Hellifield and Age Concern Bentham, who have remained independent Age Concerns but are linked to the Age UK wider network and as such Age UK North Craven offers advice and guidance to provide support.

In 2011 the organisation became a charitable company limited by guarantee and, as a brand partner of Age UK and changed its name to Age UK North Craven. This status requires the organisation to abide by several conditions, pertaining to acceptable use of the Age UK Brand, and to provide an Information and Advice Service, focusing on welfare benefits, housing options and care choices. The organisation has around 13 members of staff working mainly on a part-time basis, and benefits from the time given by 150 volunteers. 

In addition to Information and Advice, Age UK North Craven offers Transport services and a programme of Activities and Events, as well as regular Catch Up Calls for people who are unable to get out and about or feel isolated.

Throughout its history, Age UK North Craven has undertaken services which support its overarching aim – to promote the well-being of all older people and aim to make later life a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.