Addressing social isolation among the elderly community

Social isolation poses a significant threat to the physical and mental health of older individuals. Recognising this challenge, Age Concern Hampshire are proud to offer their Help at Home Service, aimed at providing companionship, practical support, and a sense of connection for those living alone or experiencing social isolation. 

The service provides support with household chores such as laundry, housework, meal preparation, and dog walking. Due to physical challenges and limited mobility, daily household tasks can become significant hurdles for older people. Operating across Hampshire, the Help at Home service is currently available in Stubbington, Lee-on-the-Solent, as well as Fareham, Havant, Basingstoke, Andover and surrounding areas.

By addressing the physical challenges linked to reduced mobility, the service also seeks to promote wellbeing and mitigate feelings of loneliness, along with the associated risks of depression and cognitive decline. All their Home Helpers undergo DBS checks and receive training to provide companionship, aiding in the alleviation of social isolation and supporting independent living. 

Hannah Park – Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire said “With many older people needing additional help around the home, we are delighted to offer a cost-effective solution. Our Help at Home service not only offers practical help, but it also provides companionship to help reduce feelings of loneliness.”

Help at Home services are tailored to meet individual needs and preferences. Clients choose the activities, and the frequency of the visits and session can be booked for a fixed number of weeks, e.g. following hospital discharge, or on a longer-term basis. For more information call Age Concern Hampshire on 01962 868545 or email: enquiries@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk.

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. 

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way
Locks Heath
Southampton
SO31 6DX

Tel: 01962 868545

Volunteers needed, to enrich the lives of older people in Hampshire

Volunteers
Volunteers

Age Concern Hampshire is an independent charity dedicated to helping older people so they can continue living independently. Specialist care at their Care and Wellbeing Centres and support through other services, ensures clients, caregivers and family have access to support so they can achieve the very best quality of life.  

The dedication and generosity of volunteers, has proven to significantly enhance the support and activities provided at their centres and groups, offering a wider array of activities that cater to specific needs and interests. This can help individuals discover new hobbies or rekindle old passions, and enjoy engaging activities such as gentle exercise, music classes to crafting and interactive sessions. 
 
Brogan Rehill, Fundraising Manager at Age Concern Hampshire said “The support we provide to clients and their carers would not be possible with our incredible team of dedicated and passionate volunteers. Many of our volunteers have been supporting us for many years, and enjoy the social benefits, as well as enjoyment and fulfilment volunteering brings.”  

To better support the needs of older people in the community, Age Concern Hampshire are urging for more volunteers to support them across their services. Additional support from volunteers brings a diverse range of skills, experiences, and knowledge. Volunteering can be very rewarding, with volunteers complementing the work of the trained staff by offering unique perspectives and talents.  

Volunteer opportunities are available at their Care and Wellbeing centres in Dibden, Yateley, Locks Heath, and New Milton, making a significant impact on local communities. Additional volunteer support is also needed across their other services, including the community information service, Basingstoke Wellbeing groups, form-filling, and foot clinics.  

For those that want to join the board, get involved and actively engage in addressing the forthcoming challenges to charity, Trustee roles are also available. Research shows Volunteers feel they benefit from their volunteering in a number of ways, with enjoyment being the highest rated at 93%.   

With volunteering offering a meaningful impact to communities and enriching the lives of individuals who rely on these services, support is vital. Volunteering allows Age Concern Hampshire to continue delivering valuable support, provide a wide range of engaging activities and offer essential services. To find out more and learn how you can support the charity through volunteering, please contact Age Concern Hampshire by calling 01962 868545. 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.  

Volunteer Testimonial

Two years ago, I had a mental health crisis that led me to leave my job to concentrate on looking after myself. My confidence was shattered, I felt like my whole world had just fallen apart and I was left there trying to pick up the pieces.

Six months after I left my job, I bumped into a friend who ran a social group with Age Concern. She asked me to come along and see what they do. It didn’t take much persuading for me to come back the following week and now I’ve been volunteering for eighteen months.

The social groups we run are so simple in their concept but so affective at reducing loneliness, providing signposting to other services and providing a warm and safe space for them to enjoy themselves. It gives me a great sense of achievement every time one of our clients smiles, especially when you know that they rarely see family and friends. The work we do genuinely helps people. We really do make a difference and I feel very privileged to be able to be a part of that difference.

Age Concern really supported me in my recovery, never putting too much on me and always being kind and respectful of my own issues. The opportunities to further develop my skills has been enormous. I’ve been able to complete training on subjects such as emergency first aid and cancer awareness.

Two years ago, during a very low point in my life, I wasn’t sure if I’d ever work again, but volunteering really does build your confidence and gives you skills that you can’t get doing anything else. My managers and co-volunteers have nurtured me to the point where I’m running my own social group, helping to make people’s lives better and enjoying it at the same time. My experience with Age Concern has been so uplifting that I now feel confident enough to return to work.

 

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

Making a Difference Together…

Quiz & Curry Night
Quiz & Curry Night

Age Concern Hampshire are bringing the community together for an exciting Quiz and Curry Night at Lockwood Care and Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath. The fundraising event is a celebration to mark the charity’s 39th Birthday and an opportunity for people to come together and make a positive impact on the lives of older people in the community.  

The event boasts a great line-up, featuring a live music performance by a local group, an entertaining quiz, raffle, and a homemade curry prepared on-site by their skilled chef.  

Open to local residents and the broader community, contributions are welcome through raffle donations, volunteering and purchased tickets to attend the event. 

All donations will directly support the charity’s services and help make a positive difference in the local community. Whether it is lending a helping hand through volunteering, giving a raffle prize, or purchasing event tickets, every donation, big or small, will help make a meaningful difference. 

Tickets are available for a suggested donation of just £5 per person and can be booked online at: https://forms.office.com/e/BTX24bSADb or by visiting Lockwood Care and Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath. Alternatively email Age Concern Hampshire for more information: supporters@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk. 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.  

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

Spreading the joy of Christmas

Clodagh Visit
Clodagh Visit

Age Concern Hampshire, a leading provider of care and support services for older people, was honoured to host a special Christmas visit from their patron Clodagh McKenna at the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre.

Dedicated to enhancing the lives of older people through comprehensive care and support, Age Concern Hampshire were thrilled to welcome Clodagh at the festive event. The visit was marked with lunch and carol singing and promoted a sense of community, joy, and overall wellbeing.

The charity provides individual care and support for older people, including those with dementia. Recognising the benefits of music, the special carol sing-along aimed to provide an engaging platform for cognitive stimulation, encouraging participants to connect with their memories, evoke emotions, and share in the joy of musical expression.

In addition to the carol sing-along and festive activities, clients enjoyed delicious treats and homemade minced pies baked by Clodagh.  Renowned for her culinary expertise, Clodagh is the author of 8 cookbooks, with her latest book being a Number 1 best-seller in both the UK and Ireland. Clodagh’s homemade mince pies were a big hit amongst clients and staff, adding a lovely touch to the festive celebrations.

Helen Callen, CEO at Age Concern Hampshire said “It was wonderful to welcome Clodagh to our festive event at Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre. Clients, staff and volunteers really enjoyed the carol sing-along with Clodagh, she brings so much energy, dedication and compassion, we’re honoured to have her continued support as Charity Patron.”

Clodagh Visit Mince Pies

As charity patron, Clodagh continues to raise awareness of the charity, support key initiatives and promote projects to strengthening Age Concern Hampshire’s mission to make lives easier for older people, their carers and families to ensure they achieve the very best quality of life.

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.  

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

 

Age Concern Hampshire

Centre Way

Locks Heath

Southampton

SO31 6DX

 

Tel: 01962 868545

Raising awareness of Cancer Screening among Older People in Hampshire

Older couple
Older couple

Age Concern Hampshire are delighted to announce that they have been awarded funding from Action Hampshire, through the Communities Against Cancer Fund. The project aims to increase awareness, improve the early diagnosis of cancer, and help achieve better health outcomes.  

With a focus on providing guidance through access to essential information and group activities, the project will help clients across Age Concern Hampshire’s services, including those with additional and complex needs (such as dementia). Engaging in conversations around cancer will provide valuable support, enabling individuals to ­­­make informed decisions and choices to help them spot the early signs of cancer and reduce their risk.  

The likelihood of getting most types of cancer increases with age, and half of all cancers are diagnosed in people over 70. Yet despite this, people over 75 are the only group in which death rates from cancer have increased since the 1970s. Almost a third of cancers in the over-70s are only diagnosed when a patient is admitted to hospital as an emergency. However, compared to countries with similar health care systems, the outcomes for older people in the UK are worse in relation to treatment, quality of life and survival.  

The project, based at their Care and Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath, will include the support and training of volunteers and staff, enabling them to provide key information to vulnerable beneficiaries and engage in conversation around cancer. With access to face-to-face support, Age Concern Hampshire aim to educate communities about the signs and symptoms of cancer, emphasising the importance of early detection and decreasing the overall risk of cancer.   

Brogan Rehill, Fundraising Manager at Age Concern Hampshire said “We’re delighted to be supporting the Communities Against Cancer project, funded by Action Hampshire. Our goal is to share important information and help our local community become more aware. We want to provide valuable knowledge about cancer so that people can recognise early signs.”  

Understanding the unique needs of older people with disabilities and long-term health conditions, Age Concern Hampshire strives to create an inclusive environment that fosters engagement and accessibility. If you or someone you know would benefit from hearing from us about our services and projects, please use the link below to sign up to our newsletter via our website: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/volunteer-hampshire/make-a-donation/  

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk  

Age Concern Hampshire  
Centre Way  
Locks Heath  
Southampton  
SO31 6DX  

Cancer Research UK 

Macmillan Cancer Support 

Supporting Families to Alleviate Financial and Emotional Strains of Aging Care

Centres

Centres

Age Concern Hampshire have launched a new initiative to provide affordable day care packages, as a cost-effective alternative to families seeking full-time residential care for their loved ones. Delivered from their Care and Wellbeing Centres, the day care packages offer clients the opportunity to enjoy substantial discounts when they attend multiple days each week. This makes it a more accessible, practical and affordable option for carers, enabling loved ones to stay at home for longer and alleviates the financial and emotional strain.

Full-time residential care can be an expensive option for many families, making finding a quality and affordable care option very difficult. Age Concern Hampshire aims to bridge this gap by offering a cost-effective solution that ensures older people receive the care they need whilst easing the financial strain on families. Affordable package pricing means the more days attended, the more significant the saving.  

Hannah Park – Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire said “We’re delighted to be offering affordable day care packages to our clients, as we believe quality care should be accessible and affordable for all. Entrusting a loved one into our care can be a hard decision for family and loved ones, our Care and Wellbeing Centres are here to support clients on their ageing journey, whilst offering valuable respite to family and carers.” 

In 2021, there were an estimated 5.4 million unpaid caregivers in the UK. With many families providing informal care for elderly family members, this pressure creates emotional and psychological challenges, especially when caring for individuals with chronic health conditions or cognitive impairments. It can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression for family caregivers, as well as daily challenges in balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. Age Concern Hampshire recognises these emotional and financial challenges and are committed to offering support that eases the burden on families. 

The charity has Care and Wellbeing Centres in Dibden, Yateley, New Milton & Locks Heath, which include accessibility and support for older people with mobility challenges or disabilities. To learn more about their affordable day care services or to book a free taster session, please contact them on 01962 868545. 

 Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.  

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

 Tel: 01962 868545 

Fundraising Event Success for Age Concern Hampshire

Age Concern Hampshire Quiz & Curry

 

Age Concern Hampshire were delighted to host a fundraising event at the Horrill Care and Wellbeing Centre on Friday, 6th October. The Quiz and Curry Night was a remarkable success, filled with generosity, community spirit, and a shared commitment to their cause  

The sold-out evening included a performance from a talented local Ukulele band, who charmed the audience with their musical tunes. In addition to the live music, the event also featured a quiz, as well as a delicious homemade curry, prepared on-site by their skilled chef. 

Helen Callen, CEO at Age Concern Hampshire said “We’d like to say a big thank you for the incredible support we received at our fundraising event at Horrill Care and Wellbeing Centre. The money raised will help us to make a positive difference in the local community”. 

The event was held in Dibden/Hythe and received incredible support from local residents and the broader community. The charity received generous contributions through donations, volunteering and purchased tickets to attend the event. This combined effort made a significant impact, with the event raising over £400 in vital funds and highlighted the power of coming together to support local communities. 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services, and a variety of other activities.   

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX  

Tel: 01962 868545 

Clodagh Mckenna announced as Age Concern Hampshire’s Patron

Clodagh Mckenna Patron


Age Concern Hampshire, who are dedicated to improving the lives of older people across Hampshire, are delighted to announce that Clodagh McKenna has agreed to become Patron of the charity.

Clodagh McKenna is a chef, TV presenter, cookbook author and runs her 100 acres sustainable farm, Broadspear in Hampshire where she lives and works. She is the author of 8 cookbooks, including most recently In Minutes and Clodagh’s Weeknight Kitchen. Her latest book In Minutes is a Number 1 best-seller in both the UK and Ireland. Clodagh is a food columnist for the Sunday Times Magazine and a resident chef on ITV’s This Morning show. She has also hosted 5 of her own TV series.

Clodagh Mckenna has chosen to become involved with Age Concern Hampshire in their mission to enhance the wellbeing of older people in the county and will play an important part in championing their cause and helping them achieve their charitable goals.

Helen Callen, CEO for Age Concern Hampshire said: ‘’We are delighted to welcome Clodagh as our patron. Clodagh’s generosity to give her time to support older people in Hampshire will make such a difference in raising our profile and generating support for our essential services.

Today’s visit to our Frogmore Care and Wellbeing Centre has enabled Clodagh to see how our staff care for those not only with Dementia but those who are Physically Frail and how the service also supports Carers giving them much-needed respite whilst knowing that their loved one is receiving the support they need.

We are very much looking forward to working with Clodagh over the coming months and showing her the many ways in which Age Concern Hampshire supports older people‘’.

As charity patron, Clodagh will raise awareness of the charity, support key initiatives and promote projects so the charity can continue to deliver its key services. This invaluable support will be vital in allowing Age Concern Hampshire to further its reach and expand their ability to support local communities.

Clodagh Mckenna comments: “I am so honoured to become the Patron of Age Concern Hampshire. The work that they do to care for our elderly community is invaluable. I am so inspired by the team at the charity and all the many volunteers that donate their free time. This is something that I feel we take for granted, I am excited about helping in any way that I can to grow the awareness and support their brilliant work. Without charities like Age Concern Hampshire so many of our elders in the community would struggle and not enjoy the last years of their life”.

Age Concern Hampshire hosted this visit, to officially welcome Clodagh as the charity’s patron. Clodagh’s involvement promises to be a source of inspiration and encouragement, strengthening Age Concern Hampshire’s mission to make lives easier for older people, their carers and families to ensure they achieve the very best quality of life.

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing Centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.
For more information, visit:

Age Concern Hampshire

Centre Way

Locks Heath

Southampton

SO31 6DX
Tel: 01962 868545

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

 

Supporting mobility and independence through affordable Foot Care Clinics

Foot Care

Foot Care

It is common to encounter challenges when it comes to proper foot and nail care, especially as people get older. Physical limitations, reduced vision, and various medical conditions can make it difficult for older people to maintain healthy feet and toenails. Neglected foot health can lead to discomfort, pain, and even serious complications such as infections or falls.

By supporting local communities, Age Concern Hampshire aim to improve the quality of life for older people across Hampshire, through their Foot Care service. Foot Care Clinics currently operate in Basingstoke, Odiham, Overton, Alton, Andover, Petersfield, Winchester, Havant, Locks Heath and Yateley, offering toenail cutting and foot health checks, designed to promote the well-being of older individuals.

Pain-free feet are essential for mobility and balance, and maintaining proper foot health can significantly reduce the risk of falls among older individuals. Ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and other foot problems can also cause pain and discomfort, leading to an imbalance and increasing the risk of falls.

Una Davey – Business Change Manager at Age Concern Hampshire said “With so many older people struggling with mobility, we’re delighted to offer this vital service. Our friendly team are committed to keeping feet healthy and safe, as well as supporting clients’ individual needs”.

Clinics are staffed by skilled foot care specialists, who have extensive experience in working with older clients. They understand the unique challenges older people face, providing a compassionate and individual service. To book an appointment please Age Concern Hampshire on 01962 868545.

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services, and a variety of other activities. 

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way
Locks Heath
Southampton
SO31 6DX

Tel: 01962 868545

Music therapy sessions to support physical and emotional wellbeing

Music Therapy

Music Therapy Key ChangesMusic Therapy Key Changes

Age Concern Hampshire is pleased to be offering music therapy sessions to support their clients’ physical wellbeing, emotional wellbeing and quality of life. The project, partnering with Key Changes Music Therapy, will provide music therapy group work at Lockswood Care & Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath.

Music therapy gives older people an opportunity to interact and connect with others through music, using a wide range of musical styles and instruments. Sessions are tailored to individual needs, offering active participation, listening to familiar music, or engaging in group activities.

Theresa Carter – Head of Care at Age Concern Hampshire said “We’re delighted to be offering music therapy sessions for our clients at Lockswood Care & Wellbeing Centre. Music therapy will help individuals discover new ways of communicating and open doors towards experiencing a more fulfilled life”.

With many older people struggling with declined health or living with dementia, music therapy offers many benefits, including improving emotional wellbeing, quality of life and supporting psychological, emotional, cognitive, communicative and social needs. Observed benefits have included clients exploring, expressing and connecting with the world, through unique musical languages, where communication was previously difficult.

Seed funding was provided by Key Changes Music Therapy and further funding would allow the project to continue across Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing centres in New Miton, Hythe and Yateley. If you wish to support or sponsor future sessions, please contact Age Concern Hampshire on 01962 868545 or email: supporters@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via our Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way
Locks Heath
Southampton
SO31 6DX

Tel: 01962 868545