Helping Patients Thrive: Age Concern Hampshire Continues to Deliver Impactful Hospital to Home Support and celebrates the Ruby Anniversary

H2H Choir
Age Concern Hampshire, now celebrating its 40th Anniversary, continues its long-standing commitment to supporting older people across the county through its Hospital to Home Service, delivered in partnership with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. The service operates at Alton Community Hospital, Gosport War Memorial Hospital and Petersfield Community Hospital, helping patients during their stay and ensuring a smooth, safe transition home.
 

As part of the charity’s anniversary year and its £40,000 fundraising target, the Hospital to Home team is shining a light on the meaningful difference it makes every day. Coordinators work closely with patients on the wards, offering a range of engaging activities that support rehabilitation, wellbeing and confidence. From themed events such as the much-loved Mad Hatter’s Tea Party to seasonal celebrations and social sessions, the service enhances the hospital experience and brings moments of joy, connection and community to patients.

Alongside these activities, practical support remains at the heart of the programme. Coordinators identify any issues that may impact discharge, work with ward teams to ensure a safe and timely return home, and provide signposting and referrals to community support services. Follow-up calls after discharge help ensure patients feel safe, supported and settled once back at home.

Mad Hatter Tea Party H2H Choir

Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire, said: “As we celebrate 40 years of supporting older people in Hampshire, we’re incredibly proud of the difference our Hospital to Home Service is making. It’s about more than helping someone leave hospital safely, it’s about building confidence, lifting spirits, and helping people feel cared for at a time when they may feel vulnerable. The funds we aim to raise this year will help us continue and grow this vital work for many years to come.”

The charity’s £40k fundraising target will support the expansion of volunteer involvement, activity resources and continued development of services, ensuring even more older people across Hampshire benefit from compassionate, local support.
Karen Cubbon from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, who has supported the partnership contract for many years, said “this service is greatly valued by our wards. The ACH staff, who work alongside and are fully integrated into the ward team, provide a vital service that complements the work of registered clinicians. They build strong relationships with people’s families and friends to identify what is needed to prepare for and to facilitate their return home. They also continue to follow up with people for a short time after discharge to support them regaining confidence after the hospital environment.  

For further information about Age Concern Hampshire’s Hospital to Home Service, please visit their website: 
https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/our-services-hampshire/hospital-to-home/
 
Editor’s Notes: 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Age Concern Hampshire Extends Partnership with SNG to Combat Social Isolation Among Older People

SNG ACH

Age Concern Hampshire is proud to announce the continuation of its valued partnership with SNG (Sovereign Network Group) to deliver social groups aimed at reducing social isolation and improving wellbeing among older people across Basingstoke, Overton, Whitchurch, Fordingbridge, and Totton.

With support from SNG, Age Concern Hampshire will run a variety of social groups that bring people together in safe, welcoming, and engaging environments. The groups focus on physical and mental wellbeing, while creating opportunities for older people to socialise, connect, and build lasting friendships.

The social groups are open to all older people in the local community, as well as residents of the housing schemes. This ensures that everyone has the chance to take part, enjoy the activities, and build connections across the wider community.

Social isolation remains one of the biggest challenges facing older people today. Many experience loneliness due to reduced mobility, limited transport options, or the loss of loved ones. By participating in these social groups, older people can stay active, try new activities such as gentle exercise and creative workshops, and enjoy companionship in a supportive and friendly environment.

 SNG ACH

“We’re delighted to be continuing our partnership with SNG,” said Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire. “These social groups make such a difference and help those attending to stay active, build friendships, and feel part of a supportive community. Tackling loneliness and isolation remains at the heart of what we do, and partnerships like this allow us to reach those who might otherwise be left behind. We’d love to expand this model to more supported housing schemes for older people across Hampshire, where around 12% of residents aged 65 and over live in similar settings. By working together, we can ensure even more people benefit from connection, companionship, and a sense of belonging.”

Stevie Chadwick, Community Investment & Partnership Manager at SNG, said: “At SNG, we’re committed to supporting our communities to live well and thrive. We’re proud to continue our partnership with Age Concern Hampshire, whose groups are making a real difference to the lives of our customers. The positive feedback we’ve received from customers has been incredibly heartening; these sessions support them to feel healthier and more connected. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact that meaningful connection and community support can have on wellbeing.”

This partnership is part of Age Concern Hampshire’s ongoing commitment to support older people through social groups, volunteer-led programmes, and community initiatives that promote wellbeing and connection across the county.

Notes to Editors:

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

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way
Locks Heath
Southampton
SO31 6DX

Tel: 01962 868545

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

SNG:

SNG (Sovereign Network Group) is one of the largest housing associations, providing 85,000 homes in areas facing some of the most acute housing need across London and the South of England, with an ambition to build an additional 25,000 homes over the next decade. It was formed on 1 October 2023 through the bringing together of Sovereign Housing Association and Network Homes. 

SNG is a leading builder of affordable homes, including for social rent, and it has a clear pathway to maximise its social and environmental sustainability through its ambitious Homes and Place Standard alongside its planned £100m Community Foundation. 

For more information and any media-related enquiries, please contact us by emailing press.office@sng.org.uk. 

 

 

ACH Corporate Newsletter – Autumn 2025

Corporate Newsletter Winter
Autumn Corporate Newsletter 2025

 

Autumn Corporate Newsletter

Our Christmas Campaign: Past, Present, and Future

As we celebrate our 40th milestone year, we’re inviting local businesses to join us in one final push to reach our £40k for 40 years goal.

We’ve launched our annual Christmas campaign, Past, Present, and Future, to support older people through the challenges of the winter season. This year’s campaign shines a spotlight on three key issues that can have a serious impact on later life: winter pressures, falls, and isolation and loneliness. By raising awareness of these challenges, we aim to generate vital funds and attract new volunteers, helping to secure the longevity of our essential services across the county. 

This Christmas, we’re calling on local businesses and corporate teams to get involved. Whether it’s giving your time through corporate volunteering days or making a donation, your support will make a lasting difference.

  Age Concern Hampshire Christmas Campaign

By partnering with us this festive season, your business can help deliver warmth, friendship, and safety to those who need it most — while showing your commitment to a stronger, more caring Hampshire.

We’d love to talk about how your business can be part of our Christmas campaign. Whether you’d like to volunteer, sponsor an activity, or make a donation, our team can help you find the right opportunity to make an impact.

Email us to find out more: supporters@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

______________________________________

£13,907 Raised to Support Wellbeing Groups for Older People

A big thank you to all our supporters who donated to our crowdfunder campaign!

We’re delighted to announce the success of our Wellbeing Groups for Older People Crowdfunder campaign, which raised an impressive £13,907 to support essential community services for older people across Hampshire.
 
Thanks to donors, corporate supporters and matched funding from the Mortgage Advice Bureau Foundation and Sport England, we can continue our mission to combat loneliness, improve wellbeing, and foster social connections among older people. The funds raised will contribute towards our £40k for 40 years campaign, set to celebrate 40 years of service, helping older people continue to live with care, connection and dignity.

  ACH 40 Years

______________________________________

Our Latest News…

​Lockswood Care & Wellbeing Centre was Dedicated in Memory of Former Board Member Dr Colin Godber OBE

We hosted a special dedication ceremony at the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath to honour the life and legacy of the late Dr Colin Godber OBE. As a voluntary board member of Age Concern Hampshire, Dr Godber brought thoughtful dedication to every aspect of his role, shaping services for older people across the county and beyond. On 2nd October, the Centre was officially dedicated in his memory, including the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Family members, trustees, the local mayor, and invited guests attended, celebrating Dr Godber’s lifelong commitment to community wellbeing.

Read the full story… 

Colin Godber Dedication Event

Volunteering at the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre is a wonderful way to make a real difference in the lives of older people. Whether it’s lending a hand with activities, sharing a friendly chat over lunch, or offering practical support, every contribution helps create a warm, welcoming environment where people can truly feel part of a community.  

Find out more by visiting our website… 

______________________________________

Unlocking Essential Support for Hampshire’s Older Population

Many older people miss out on financial benefits and practical support due to confusing application processes. Age Concern Hampshire addresses this through its Information Service, which provides personalised form-filling assistance and checks for financial entitlements, as well as support with schemes such as Blue Badges, for older people across Hampshire.

Read the full story…

Age Concern Hampshire Information Service

______________________________________

Age Concern Hampshire, Centre Way, Locks Heath, Southampton SO31 6DX
Tel: 01962 868545 or Email: enquiries@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk
Reg. Charity No. 290874

Don’t want to receive our emails?
Unsubscribe by clicking here or by emailing us: Marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk
Copyright © 2025 AgeConcernHampshire. All rights reserved.

ACH Community Newsletter – Autumn 2025

Community Newsletter Winter
Autumn Community Newsletter 2025

  Supporting Older People Across Hampshire

Autumn Community Newsletter

Welcome to our Autumn Newsletter. We’re delighted to share our latest news, opportunities and events.

______________________________________

Our Christmas Campaign

We’ve launched our annual Christmas campaign, Past, Present, and Future, to support older people through the challenges of the winter season. This year’s campaign shines a spotlight on three key issues that can have a serious impact on later life: winter pressures, falls, and isolation and loneliness. By raising awareness of these challenges, we aim to generate vital funds and attract new volunteers, helping to secure the longevity of our essential services across the county. 

Age Concern Hampshire Christmas Campaign

Volunteers are central to our work all year round. From offering companionship to providing practical support across our services, their dedication ensures that older people in Hampshire receive care, connection, and independence.

We’re also inviting donations from individuals and corporate supporters. Every contribution, big or small, helps fund essential services and allows Age Concern Hampshire to respond flexibly to the evolving needs of older people across the county. 

______________________________________

Over £13,907 Raised to Support Wellbeing Groups for Older People

A big thank you to all our supporters who donated to our crowdfunder campaign!

We’re delighted to announce the success of our Wellbeing Groups for Older People Crowdfunder campaign, which raised an impressive £13,907 to support essential community services for older people across Hampshire.
 
Thanks to individual donors and matched funding from the Mortgage Advice Bureau Foundation and Sport England, we can continue our mission to combat loneliness, improve wellbeing, and foster social connections among older people.The funds raised will contribute towards our £40k for 40 years campaign, set to celebrate 40 years of service, helping older people continue to live with care, connection and dignity.

  ACH 40 Years

______________________________________

Our Latest News…

​Lockswood Care & Wellbeing Centre was Dedicated in Memory of Former Board Member Dr Colin Godber OBE

We hosted a special dedication ceremony at the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath to honour the life and legacy of the late Dr Colin Godber OBE. As a voluntary board member of Age Concern Hampshire, Dr Godber brought thoughtful dedication to every aspect of his role, shaping services for older people across the county and beyond. On 2nd October, the Centre was officially dedicated in his memory, including the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Family members, trustees, the local mayor, and invited guests attended, celebrating Dr Godber’s lifelong commitment to community wellbeing.

Read the full story… 

Colin Godber Dedication Event

Volunteering at the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre is a wonderful way to make a real difference in the lives of older people. Whether it’s lending a hand with activities, sharing a friendly chat over lunch, or offering practical support, every contribution helps create a warm, welcoming environment where people can truly feel part of a community.  

Find out more by visiting our website… 

______________________________________

Unlocking Essential Support for Hampshire’s Older Population

Many older people miss out on financial benefits and practical support due to confusing application processes. Age Concern Hampshire addresses this through its Information Service, which provides personalised form-filling assistance and checks for financial entitlements, as well as support with schemes such as Blue Badges, for older people across Hampshire.

Read the full story…

Age Concern Hampshire Information Service

______________________________________

Support us through Give as you Live

Simply sign up for an account and start raising when you shop through Give as you Live Online at any of the 6,000 retail partners. From your handy dashboard, just click on the retailer you want to buy from and you’ll be directed to their website where you can continue to shop as normal. Your purchase will automatically generate a donation for Age Concern Hampshire!

Support us, It’s FREE

How does it work?
View a step-by-step guide

______________________________________

Work for us…

Are you looking for a job that offers job satisfaction, where you can make a real difference in the lives of older people in your local community? Join our dedicated team of caring, friendly employees and volunteers…

Home Helpers
We are looking for compassionate and empathetic individuals across Hampshire, to support our Help at Home Service. We support older people who would like help doing jobs and daily chores which aim to improve their quality of life and keep them independent at home.

Support Staff
Hampshire-wide
We are currently looking for support staff at our Care & Wellbeing Centres across Hampshire 

Footcare

______________________________________

Age Concern Hampshire, Centre Way, Locks Heath, Southampton SO31 6DX
Tel: 01962 868545 or Email: enquiries@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk
Reg. Charity No. 290874

Don’t want to receive our emails?
Unsubscribe by clicking here or by emailing us: Marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk
Copyright © 2025 AgeConcernHampshire. All rights reserved.

Age Concern Hampshire Launches Christmas Campaign to Support Older People During Winter

Age Concern Hampshire is launching its annual Christmas campaign, Past, Present, and Future, to support older people through the challenges of the winter season. This year’s campaign shines a spotlight on three key issues that can have a serious impact on later life: winter pressures, falls, and isolation and loneliness. By raising awareness of these challenges, the charity also hopes to generate vital funds and attract new volunteers, helping to secure the longevity of its essential services across the county. 
 
Winter can be a particularly difficult time for older people. Age Concern Hampshire is addressing these winter pressures by helping residents access essential financial support and providing guidance with form-filling through its Information Service. This includes assistance with benefit applications that can help with heating and fuel costs. By removing these barriers, the charity ensures older people receive the support they need to stay safe and well during the colder months.​
 
Fall prevention is another crucial focus. Through its Care and Wellbeing Centres and Foot Care clinics, Age Concern Hampshire helps older people maintain mobility, manage foot health, and reduce the risk of accidents. These services not only protect physical wellbeing but also contribute to independence and confidence at home.
 
The campaign also tackles isolation and loneliness, which can intensify during the Christmas season. Support is available at the charity’s Care and Wellbeing Centres, or through assistance in the home via the Help at Home service. In addition, practical support and social groups help older people stay connected, engaged, and supported throughout the winter.
 
Volunteers are central to Age Concern Hampshire’s work all year round. From offering companionship to supporting practical services in centres, their dedication ensures that older people in Hampshire receive care, connection, and independence. Anyone interested in giving their time can find out more by visiting: ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/volunteer-hampshire/give-time-by-volunteering.
 
The charity is also inviting donations from individuals and corporate supporters. Every contribution, big or small, helps fund essential services and allows Age Concern Hampshire to respond flexibly to the evolving needs of older people across the county. To support the Christmas campaign and make a donation, please visit justgiving.com/campaign/ach40.
 

“Winter can bring unique challenges for older people, from managing health and safety to staying socially connected,” said Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire. “Our Christmas campaign highlights the services we provide and the ways the community can help. By donating or supporting our work, everyone can play a part in ensuring no older person in Hampshire faces the season alone.”
 
Editor’s Notes: 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Frogmore Care & Wellbeing Centre Celebrates Three Years of Supporting Older People in Yateley

Age Concern Hampshire Social Groups
 Age Concern Hampshire’s Frogmore Care & Wellbeing Centre is celebrating its third anniversary this November with a week of special events, culminating in a community Open Afternoon on Friday 7 November, from 1–3pm.

Since opening its doors in 2022, the Frogmore Centre has provided a welcoming space for older people in Yateley and the surrounding areas. The centre offers a range of services designed to support wellbeing and independence, including specialist day care for people living with dementia.

To mark three successful years, the Centre will host a Week of Celebration, with clients enjoying themed activities such as crafts and cakes, a cosy Bonfire Night celebration with cakes and hot chocolate, and Remembrance Day poppy crafts to honour and reflect together.

The celebrations will conclude with a special Open Afternoon on Friday 7 November, offering the perfect opportunity for anyone who might enjoy day care for themselves or a loved one to see what the Centre has to offer.

“We’re so proud to be celebrating three years of care, connection and community,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “Our team provides tailored support for older people, including those living with dementia, in a warm and friendly setting. The Open Afternoon is a great way for local families to see how we can make a difference.”

Age Concern Hampshire Social Groups

Visitors to the Open Afternoon will be able to meet the team, enjoy live entertainment and light refreshments, take part in activities, and receive information and guidance about the Centre’s services and care packages.

The Open Afternoon will be held at Frogmore Care & Wellbeing Centre, Potley Hill Road, Yateley, GU46 6AG, from 1pm-3pm. To book your free place, please call 07842 306 033.

Editor’s Notes: 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire Champions Older People’s Wellbeing in Basingstoke and the New Forest

ACH Watercress Line

Alongside other services being delivered by Age Concern Hampshire across the county, the charity is tackling loneliness and supporting the wellbeing of older people in Basingstoke and the New Forest through regular social groups and community activities. With thousands of people aged 50 and above living alone in Basingstoke and the New Forest, local groups help older residents stay active, socially connected, and engaged. Around 18% of households in Basingstoke are single-person, while nearly 30% of New Forest residents are aged 65 or over. Organisations such as Age Concern Hampshire and local wellbeing groups offer activities from gentle walks to lunch clubs, helping combat social isolation and support independent living.

Research shows that regular social interaction supports better mental health in later life, while activities, gentle exercise and time spent outdoors are strongly linked to improved mood and overall wellbeing, principles that shape these groups. Highlighting these benefits, attendees recently enjoyed an excursion on the Watercress Line, Hampshire’s heritage railway, which offered a change of scenery and an opportunity to socialise, stay active and connect with the local community.

Through activities like these, Age Concern Hampshire demonstrates the tangible impact its services have on the physical and mental wellbeing of older people. Volunteers are essential to the charity’s work, supporting activities, outings and social groups, assisting participants and helping ensure events run smoothly. Their commitment enables the charity to reach more people and create meaningful connections across the community, while volunteers gain a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

 ACH Watercress Line ACH Watercress Line

“Our social groups make a real difference to older people’s lives,” said Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire. “Participants benefit from staying active, meeting new people, and feeling part of their local community, while our volunteers gain an equally rewarding experience contributing to these meaningful connections.”

For more information about social groups, volunteering, or ways your business can get involved, contact Age Concern Hampshire on 01962 868545 or visit ageconcernhampshire.org.uk. Volunteers and local supporters are vital to the charity’s work, helping to run activities, support participants, and create meaningful connections. By giving their time or resources, individuals and businesses can make a real difference in the lives of older people, while also enjoying a rewarding and fulfilling experience and helping strengthen the local community.

Editor’s Notes: 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire Raises Over £13,000 to Support Wellbeing Groups for Older People

Donations
Age Concern Hampshire (ACH) is delighted to announce the success of its Wellbeing Groups for Older People Crowdfunder campaign, which raised an impressive £13,867 to support essential community services for older people across Hampshire.
 
Thanks to matched funding from the Mortgage Advice Bureau Foundation and Sport England, the total impact of donations has been significantly increased, helping the charity continue its mission to combat loneliness, improve wellbeing, and foster social connections among older people.The funds raised will contribute towards the charity’s £40k for 40 years campaign, set to celebrate 40 years of service, helping older people continue to live with care, connection and dignity.​
 
Since 1985, the independent charity has delivered a wide range of services designed to help older adults live well and independently for longer. Over the years, it has grown to include Care and Wellbeing Centres, Help at Home services, Foot Care Clinics, Social Groups, Hospital to Home support, free Information Hubs and a variety of other essential activities. Staff and volunteers, drawn from all walks of life, work together to offer friendship, guidance and care throughout every stage of ageing. ​
 
“We’re so grateful for the generosity of everyone who supported the campaign,” said Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire. “The funds raised will make a real difference in helping us keep these vital wellbeing sessions running and accessible to those who need them most.”
 
As Age Concern Hampshire celebrates 40 years of service, this initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to helping older people live well and independently for longer.​
 

Editor’s Notes: 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

 

​Lockswood Care & Wellbeing Centre was Dedicated in Memory of Former Board Member Dr Colin Godber OBE 

Colin Godber Dedication Event

Age Concern Hampshire hosted a special dedication ceremony at the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath to honour the life and legacy of the late Dr Colin Godber OBE, whose long-standing passion for older people and community wellbeing shaped services across the county and beyond. 

The event, which took place on 2nd October, saw the official dedication of the Lockswood Care and Wellbeing Centre in Dr Godber’s memory, including the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. Members of his family, trustees, the local mayor, and invited guests attended the ceremony, honouring a legacy of dedication to the care and wellbeing of older people. 

Dr Godber, who served as a consultant in old age psychiatry in Hampshire for over three decades, was known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his kindness, integrity, and deep commitment to patient care. A pioneer in community-based services, he helped shape modern approaches to elderly mental health and mentored a generation of practitioners. 

After retiring from the NHS, Dr Godber once again immersed himself in the practical challenges of budgeting, contracts, and service provision as a voluntary board member of Age Concern Hampshire, bringing thoughtful dedication to every aspect of his role. 

Colin Godber Dedication Event

“Colin’s lifelong commitment to improving the lives of older people was evident in all he did,” said Helen Callen, Chair of the Board of Directors at Age Concern Hampshire. “He gave his time, knowledge and heart to this organisation and the wider community. Dedicating our Lockswood Centre in his memory was a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy will benefit generations to come.” 

The dedication ceremony included reflections from colleagues, trustees, and family members, recognising not only Dr Godber’s professional achievements but also the kindness and dedication he showed throughout his life. 

For more information about Age Concern Hampshire and the support it provides to older people across the county, please contact the charity on 01962 868545 or visit www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk. The charity delivers practical and person-centred services that promote independence, wellbeing and connection both at home and within the community, helping older people to live safely and confidently in later life. 

 
Editor’s Notes: 

Age Concern Hampshire 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

 
Colin Godber (OBE) 

Dr Colin Godber was awarded an OBE in 2000 for services to elderly mentally ill people. He served as a consultant in old age psychiatry from 1973 to 2005 and played a key role in shaping elderly mental health services in Hampshire. 

He was a founding member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ Group for the Psychiatry of Old Age, which later became the Faculty of Old Age Psychiatry. Together with colleagues including Tom Arie, Zoe Slattery, and John Wattis, as well as geriatricians John Brocklehurst and Bernard Isaacs, he successfully campaigned for old age psychiatry to be recognised as a specialty by the Department of Health in 1989. 

He volunteered with Age Concern Hampshire from 2005 until shortly before his passing in September 2024. 
 
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/bjpsych-bulletin/article/colin-godber-md-frcpsych-frcp-obe/A8BC6ED6FE78B9D62A314FFA84DD829C 

Unlocking Essential Support for Hampshire’s Older Population  

Age Concern Hampshire Information Service

Many older people miss out on financial benefits and practical support due to confusing application processes. Age Concern Hampshire addresses this through its Information Service, which provides personalised form-filling assistance and checks for financial entitlements, as well as support with schemes such as Blue Badges, for older people across Hampshire. 

Supported by a team of dedicated and highly trained volunteers, the service helps with completing forms for Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Pension Credit, and Blue Badges either over the phone or in the comfort of a person’s home. 

National statistics highlight the scale of the issue: in 2023, approximately 1.8 million people in Great Britain received Attendance Allowance, yet 140,000 eligible individuals did not claim it. Similarly, as of March 2024, 2.93 million people in England were entitled to a Blue Badge without further assessment, but only 2.84 million valid badges were held, indicating that many eligible individuals are not applying for this essential support. Services like Age Concern Hampshire’s Information Service help bridge these gaps by guiding older residents through the complex application process.

Age Concern Hampshire Information Service

“Filling in forms can be overwhelming and many older people do not claim what they are entitled to,” said Yvonne Hiscock, Information Services Senior Co-ordinator at Age Concern Hampshire. “Our Volunteers provide tailored assistance, ensuring individuals receive the guidance most relevant to their needs.” 

Beyond form-filling support, Age Concern Hampshire’s Information Service provides support and signposting on important topics such as home services, digital inclusion, foot care, and specialist support. 

With the cost of living rising, this service has become more essential than ever. For older people and their families it is a lifeline, helping them access benefits and services that improve independence, wellbeing, and quality of life. 

How to Access Support 
Phone: 01962 868545 
Email: enquiries@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 
Website: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/our-services-hampshire/information-service/ 

Editor’s Notes: 

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 Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk