Christmas Support Extended

Local charity stay true to values of innovation and compassion with extended support for older people this Christmas. For the first time, it will be business as usual during the Christmas break for Age UK Plymouth’s two day centres as they extend their opening hours to accommodate clients this Christmas.

“We know Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many people, dementia won’t be closed for Christmas and now neither will we,” said Head of Day Centres, Tracy Walker. “Our day centres provide vital support to people in our community and although it does require some strategic planning we’re delighted to be open between Christmas and New Year. Along with hosting a seasonal warm space for the second year, we’re also able to help people maximise their cost of living support via our Information and Advice Team, all of these things really help reduce the pressures that winter can bring.”

“Reducing isolation and loneliness is a huge part of our focus, but this is not just about companionship,” said Chief Executive Officer, David Wood. “Attending our day centre and dementia day centre is the vital piece of care and support that means many of our clients can continue to live as independently as possible at home. Ensuring that people have had at least one warm, nutritious meal, that they’re up and about safely each day, that their loved ones and carers have the ability to go out to work – these are all the extra things, the added piece of mind, the vital safeguarding that our day centres provide for clients and their families and loved ones all year round.”

Much of the work of Age UK Plymouth is only possible thanks to the support of those who donate to the charity. Their Winter Appeal is now open, taking donations to help them be there for those who need them the most this year. As well as public donations, the appeal has been supported with donations from Associated British Ports, Sky, Councillor Rebecca Smith through her Community Budget, Universal Fire and Security and those who attended the fundraising gala dinner in October.