Get knitting during lockdown to support older people during the pandemic

Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (WSBH) is urging local knitters to support older people in the area this year by using time in lockdown to create miniature hats for the innocent Big Knit campaign. Each hat collected to adorn innocent smoothie bottles raises 25p for the charity, directly supporting its work with some of the most vulnerable people locally.

This year, support  for the Big Knit is more vital than ever as many over 65s have suffered during the Covid-19 pandemic and have turned to Age UK WSBH for help. The charity has been delivering food and medication to doorsteps as well as offering a brand new befriending service for those feeling isolated and lonely.

There are a selection of hat designs to choose from and Age UK WSBH is inviting everyone - whether a purling pro, crochet connoisseur or a knitting newbie to give it a try, by getting one of the hat patterns and joining the campaign. Designs include a dinosaur, lion, unicorn and duck and there are patterns to suit all abilities including classic beginner bobble hats, crochet options and other fun characters – knitters can even create and design their own.

Helen Rice, Chief Executive at Age UK WSBH said “The Big Knit with innocent is in its 17^th year now, but it has never been more needed. The pandemic has hugely affected our income, at a time when demand for our services is higher than ever. Fundraising initiatives like this, which can still continue despite Covid restrictions, are so important. I know many people are using the time at home to try new hobbies, so if you fancy giving knitting a try, why not do some good at the same time? Our target is 40,000 – no mean feat, so we’d be incredibly grateful for your support.”

Hat patterns can be downloaded from  https://www.thebigknit.co.uk/knitting-patterns.

Those without internet access can call us on 01903 731 800 to request patterns. Once knitted, people should hang on to their hats at the moment, until they can be posted or collected after lockdown.

Once lockdown is lifted, the AUKWSBH website www.ageuk.org.uk/westsussexbrightonhove will carry any updates, or you can call on 01903 731 800.