Age UK Norwich offered same day support to older people living in poverty this winter

Age UK Norwich gave hardship support to almost 80 older people this winter, offering supermarket vouchers, gas credit, heated throws and benefits advice. Much of this support was offered on the same day the charity was contacted, immediately helping those who were in desperate need. 

Between October 2023 and the beginning of March 2024 we issued just over £4,500 in hardship support to 79 clients. The main use of the funds was to support clients with £50 supermarket vouchers.   Most of these were purchased as digital vouchers which were emailed to clients or posted to those who weren't on the internet.   Other requests included support with energy and utility costs as the temperature dropped and bills increased. 

Jamie Price, Chief Operating Officer at Age UK Norwich said “We’re glad to have been able to offer emergency support to so many people this winter, and to back that up with benefits advice which helps clients longer term. We gave out practical items like heated throws, gloves, hats and scarves. Around Christmas, several people said these items were the only Christmas present they would receive, emphasising how isolated and lonely some people in our community are. We’re always here to turn to, and we hope that older people will get in touch rather than suffer in silence.”  

As well as offering benefits checks to those who call in, Age UK Norwich holds monthly outreach surgeries in deprived areas of the city. Advisers pass on information regarding potential sources of help during the winter, such as the Household Support Fund.

For online support, we have a “Winter Well” page, hosting information relating to Flu and Covid-19 Autumn booster vaccinations, signing up for cold weather alerts, keeping safe and warm in winter weather, looking after others, staying connected, support with benefits and money, food assistance at Christmas and falls prevention.   

A typical caller: 

An 86-year-old man and his wife contacted Age UK Norwich because they had had to pay for a new boiler, and it had left them short of money for food.   Their heating hadn’t been working for a few months and the house had been very cold. The couple lived very frugally. The advisor was able to offer immediate support including a supermarket voucher and two heated throws, as well as a benefits check, for future financial security.