Standing in for Santa - Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove and OneFamily deliver festive treats to vulnerable older people this Christmas

Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (WSBH) is working with Brighton based financial services company, OneFamily to deliver over 200 free festive treat boxes and ‘Bags of Support’ to older people locally this Christmas.

Treat boxes include gingerbread, Christmas cake, a Christmas pudding and mince pies, while the Bags of Support include a reusable face mask, an activity pack, a magazine and other freebies, along with information and advice on the charity’s services, including befriending. Also included is a book of six 1st class stamps, a blank Christmas card and a Christmas card from a local school child with a festive message. The deliveries will be made by an army of staff and volunteers between December 14^th – 28^th.

OneFamily has donated £2,500 to fund the treat boxes and Bags of Support, allowing Age UK WSBH to lift the spirits of some of the most vulnerable or isolated older people across Brighton & Hove. The donation from OneFamily is through its Foundation, which supports the good causes its customers care about. 

Helen Rice, Chief Executive at Age UK WSBH said “There’s no doubt that this will be a lonely and difficult Christmas for many older people. With our usual services limited due to Covid-19 restrictions, we wanted to find a way to support people at home and spread a little joy while we were at it! OneFamily’s kind donation means we can take treats to doorsteps, letting people know we’re thinking of them and  giving them the help they need to seek additional support if they’re struggling. No one should have no one this Christmas.”

Teddy Nyahasha, CEO of OneFamily said, “This is such a heart-warming campaign to be a part of.  Unfortunately, we aren’t able to invite local Age UK members into our offices this year for their usual festive party, so we thought we’d take our Christmas cheer to their doorsteps instead. 

“Isolation and sadness can be a real issue for older people at this time of year, and this has been an extraordinarily tough time for everyone.  So, we hope that our festive treats will bring some much-needed happiness and smiles.”

Age UK WSBH has been working throughout the pandemic to support older people across the local area. As we head towards the festive period the charity is keen to spread the word that people can turn to them if they are feeling isolated or need help. Many find Christmas a lonely time anyway and with Coronavirus still having a huge impact, Age UK WSBH is needed more than ever. Services include telephone befriending, help at home, doorstep deliveries, emergency welfare support and information and advice on everything from financial worries, to independent living.

Anyone who needs support or who is worried about a friend or family member at this time can call 01903 731 800 or email info@ageukwsbh.org.uk