Celebrating Dementia Action Week Across Hampshire

ACH Pet Therapy

Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing Centres in Yateley, New Milton, Locks Heath, and Dibden celebrated Dementia Action Week with a variety of activities aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals living with dementia. The charity ran sessions including music and pet therapy, which are an integral part of its ongoing commitment to providing person-centred day care in a safe and welcoming environment. 

Dementia Action Week also highlights the importance of early diagnosis, which is crucial for helping people access the right care and support at the right time. With nearly one million people in the UK living with dementia and more than 200,000 receiving a diagnosis each year, Age Concern Hampshire continues to respond to this growing need by offering high-quality, affordable day care that provides tailored support to individuals living with dementia. 

ACH Pet Therapy

“Our Care and Wellbeing Centres provide a supportive environment for individuals living with dementia, while also offering much-needed respite for family carers,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “We offer a range of engaging activities, a two-course lunch, and optional transport, all tailored to meet individual needs.” 

Alongside highlighting early diagnosis, the week also shines a light on the increasing challenges faced by family carers. Many experience emotional and physical exhaustion, which is why Age Concern Hampshire offers vital respite care. Their day care services provide carers with peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are receiving expert care in a safe and supportive environment. 

For families seeking more information or unsure of the support available, Age Concern Hampshire offers taster days at its Care and Wellbeing Centres in Yateley, New Milton, Locks Heath, and Dibden. These sessions provide an opportunity to explore the variety of care and activities specifically designed to support individuals living with dementia. 

To learn more about Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing Centres or to book a free taster session, visit https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/care-and-wellbeing-services-hampshire/ or call 01962 868545. Early support makes all the difference. 

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 Launches New Lunch Clubs to Support Older People Across the County 

ACH Meals

Age Concern Hampshire is continuing its mission to support older people throughout the county with the launch of a brand-new Lunch Club, alongside its ongoing services at local Care and Wellbeing Centres.  

The charity’s Care and Wellbeing Centres provide older people with essential support, offering transport, nutritious meals, and a range of engaging activities designed to enhance wellbeing and reduce social isolation. The centres also deliver tailored services for individuals living with dementia or needing additional support, as well as their carers, creating a compassionate and inclusive environment. 

As part of its ongoing efforts to build community and combat loneliness, Age Concern Hampshire is pleased to announce the launch of its brand-new Lunch Clubs, now open to all. The Lunch Clubs offers individuals and community groups the chance to come together and enjoy a freshly prepared two-course hot lunch, for £9. 

Whether attending with friends, as part of a group, or independently, guests will find a warm, welcoming space to enjoy a good meal and friendly conversation. The Lunch Club is ideal for those looking to make new connections or simply enjoy a regular social outing in a relaxed and inclusive setting. 

ACH Meals

Grant Read, CEO of Age Concern Hampshire, said: “We know that loneliness and social isolation can have a serious impact on health and wellbeing, especially for older people. The Lunch Club is a simple but powerful way to bring people together over a good meal, in a space where everyone feels welcome. We’re proud to offer a service that encourages connection, conversation, and community.” 

For more information about Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing Centres or to learn how to join a Lunch Club, please visit https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/our-services-hampshire/lunch-clubs/or call 01962 868545. The Lunch Clubs are open to everyone and are currently being held at the charity’s Care and Wellbeing Centres in Locks Heath, Dibden, and New Milton. 

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 

Providing Essential Support for Independent Living 

Help at Home

As the UK’s ageing population continues to grow, maintaining independence in later life has become a significant priority for older adults and their families. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), by 2041, there will be more than 20 million people aged 65 and over in the UK. This increasing number of older adults highlights the growing demand for services that help individuals maintain their independence at home. 

Age Concern Hampshire is addressing this need through their Help at Home service, which is designed to support older people in living independently and comfortably in their own homes. The charity’s professional and friendly Home Helpers offer tailored support to make everyday tasks more manageable for older individuals. 

Research shows that 4.3 million older people in the UK live alone, and many experience challenges in managing daily tasks as they age. For many, staying in their own homes is a top priority. Age Concern Hampshire’s Help at Home service ensures that older adults can continue to live in comfort while maintaining a high quality of life. 

 

Help at Home

 

“Our Home Helpers are passionate about offering tailored support that enables older people to live independently and comfortably in their own homes,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “Our services are personalised to meet the specific needs of each individual, empowering them to maintain their independence.” 

The Help at Home service offers a range of support, including help with housework, laundry, shopping, meal preparation, companionship, trips out, dog walking, and more. For further details, or to arrange an assessment call 01962 868545. 

 

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 

£40K for 40 Years fundraising campaign to commemorate the Ruby Anniversary for local independent charity

ACH Ruby Events

Age Concern Hampshire (ACH) proudly marks a significant milestone in 2025, celebrating 40 years of dedicated service to older people across the county. To recognise this remarkable achievement, the charity has launched the £40k for 40 Years fundraising campaign in February 2025, an ambitious initiative aimed at raising £40,000 through 40 community-led events. 

Since its founding in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire has been committed to enhancing the lives of older people by offering essential services, engaging activities, and dedicated dementia support. To ensure this crucial work continues, the organisation is urging communities and businesses to get involved, whether through fundraising or by becoming a Corporate Sponsor. Every contribution helps make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. 

The independent registered charity has created comprehensive fundraising packs to help participants plan and deliver successful events. These resources provide guidance on selecting the right event, using effective promotional materials and assets, and maximising donations. An A-Z Fundraising Guide is also available to inspire creative fundraising ideas. To ensure smooth event planning, participants are asked to complete an Event Planning Form to capture all essential details. 

Contributions from fundraising events can be made through the charity’s dedicated JustGiving page, where UK taxpayers can also boost their donations by 25% at no extra cost through Gift Aid. To celebrate community involvement, supporters are encouraged to share event photos and updates with the charity, helping to inspire others and highlight the impact of their efforts. 

ACH Ruby Events


“As we celebrate 40 years of supporting older people across Hampshire, we’re inviting individuals, community groups, and businesses to get involved in this special campaign,” said Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire. “Every contribution, big or small, helps us continue making a difference for years to come”. 

For more information or to get involved, please contact Age Concern Hampshire’s Marketing & Fundraising Team at supporters@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk or visit their website at https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/ach-40k-for-40-years-fundraising-campaign/. 

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.  

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 

ACH £40k for 40 Years Fundraising Campaign

ACH 40 Years

ACH £40k for 40 Years Fundraising Campaign

Celebrating 40 years of caring...

Social Volunteer
ACH 40 Years

2025 marks a momentous milestone year for Age Concern Hampshire as we celebrate 40 years of supporting our community! To commemorate this incredible achievement, we’re inviting you to join us in hosting a fundraising event or supporting us as an official Corporate Sponsor. Your dedication to our cause is invaluable in helping us continue our vital work and enhance the lives of older people across Hampshire for another 40 years.

Your support will contribute towards our £40k for 40 Years fundraising campaign, an ambitious Initiative aimed at hosting 40 events to raise £40,000. This support will not only generate vital funds for our services but also bring communities together to reflect on the incredible impact we’ve made over the past four decades.

We’d love you to be involved in organising a fundraising event on our behalf, to assist, we’ve put together some useful information to help you get started.

You’ll find guidance on key aspects such as choosing your event, promoting your event, and maximising donations. Thank you for supporting Age Concern Hampshire. Your commitment makes a real difference in the lives of older people in our community.

      STEP 1      

Planning Your Event

Whether you’re planning to host a coffee morning, organise a garden party, or hold a themed Ruby event, we’ve created helpful fundraising packs with planning advice, practical tips, and essential information to ensure your event’s success. If you’re unsure where to begin or need inspiration, our A-Z fundraising guide is also here to support you.

ACH Fundraising Packs
A-Z Guide

      STEP 2      

Confirming Your Event

Once you have chosen your event theme, please complete an Event Planning Form for each event you are organising.

It is essential that the Event Planning Form is completed to ensure we have all the necessary details.

Event Planning Form

      STEP 3      

Promoting Your Event

To help promote your event, we’ve created a range of assets, including event banners, social media graphics, and other promotional materials. We’ve also provided poster templates in Word that you can personalise with your event details and contact information.

Social Media Assets
Event Graphics
Personalised Posters

      STEP 4     

Donations

You can contribute the funds from your event through our dedicated JustGiving page. This secure and easy-to-use platform allows you to make a direct contribution, helping us reach our goal and make a meaningful impact. Additionally, individuals attending your event can also donate through this page, making it easy for everyone to support the cause. Don’t forget to complete a Gift Aid declaration! UK taxpayers can boost donations by 25% at no extra cost, helping your contribution go even further.

JustGiving Page

      STEP 5     

Share Your Event

We’d love to hear how you get on and ask that you send pictures of you and your event.

Email your photos

      STEP 6      

Additional Support

Additional Support For more information or if you require further assistance, please contact our Marketing & Fundraising Team.

Email Us

Thank you all for your continued dedication and support of ACH. Your hard work and commitment make a real difference in the lives of older people in our community.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone together!

Oakley Stitchers Donate Dementia-Friendly Props to Support Age Concern Hampshire

Hospital to Home

Age Concern Hampshire is delighted to announce a generous donation from Oakley Stitchers CIC, a dedicated community group that has handcrafted dementia-friendly props, including Twiddle Muffs, lap blankets, and fidget toys. These specially designed items will support the charity’s Hospital to Home service in Gosport, Petersfield, and Alton hospitals, helping patients with dementia feel more comfortable and engaged during their hospital stay and transition back home. If you would like to find out more or get involvedin helping them create items for us and the many other areas they support, please visit their website www.oakleystitchers.org.uk.

Twiddle Muffs/mitts and similar sensory items provide invaluable comfort to individuals living with dementia by offering soothing tactile stimulation, reducing anxiety, and helping to maintain fine motor skills. The donation from Oakley Stitchers CIC will directly benefit older patients, ensuring they receive additional care and support in a way that enhances their wellbeing.

Hospital to Home

“We are incredibly grateful to Oakley Stitchers CIC for their kindness and generosity,” said Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising & Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire. “Their donation will make a significant difference to individuals living with dementia by providing a sense of reassurance and familiarity during a potentially stressful time.”

Age Concern Hampshire welcomes all forms of support from the community. Whether through volunteering, donations of equipment, or financial contributions, every bit of help makes a meaningful difference in the lives of older people. The charity relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses and groups to continue delivering essential services, and anyone interested in supporting their work can get in touch by emailing supporters@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk.

Notes to Editors:
Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire has been providing services to the older community of Hampshire for 40 years this year. 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.  

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

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 

 

The Importance of Regular Toenail Cutting for Better Foot Health and Fall Prevention 

ACH Foot Care

Regular toenail cutting and foot checks are vital for maintaining foot health, especially for older people. Age Concern Hampshire is committed to making these essential services accessible and affordable, with Foot Care clinics located throughout the county. Offering affordable 6-weekly appointments helping prevent discomfort, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls, ensures older people can maintain their mobility and live more comfortably. 

In addition to reducing pain, regular toenail cutting is essential for maintaining good posture, balance, and coordination. Healthy feet with properly trimmed toenails help ensure that toes remain straight and aligned, providing a solid foundation for walking. Misalignment or pressure from improperly maintained toenails can cause unbalanced movement, increasing the risk of falls. Ensuring toenails are trimmed regularly as part of a foot health check helps keep walking safe and stable. 
 ACH Foot Care

Michele Ralph, Foot Care Coordinator at Age Concern Hampshire, says, “As we expand our clinic locations across Hampshire, we’re making foot care more accessible and affordable to those who need it most. Regular foot checks and toenail cutting are crucial for preventing falls and helping older people maintain their mobility and comfort.” 

Each appointment is conducted by a fully qualified foot health practitioner, who performs routine foot health checks as part of the service. These checkups provide an opportunity to identify early signs of other foot issues, such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails, and other conditions. Early detection enables prompt treatment, helping to prevent these problems from escalating and promoting better overall foot health.  

Age Concern Hampshire offers foot health clinics throughout the county, ensuring that essential services are easily accessible to older people in various communities. With locations across Hampshire, and new clinics coming soon, these services provide regular toenail cutting and comprehensive foot checks, helping individuals maintain their mobility and comfort. For more information, visit their website at https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/our-services-hampshire/footcare/ or book an appointment by calling 01962 868545. 

Notes to Editors:

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.  

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

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 

Double Ruby Celebration to Kick-Start Age Concern Hampshire’s 40th Anniversary Year 

Ruby Anniversary

To commemorate 40 years of dedicated service to older adults across the county, Age Concern Hampshire launched its Ruby anniversary celebrations at their Hospital to Home service in Petersfield Hospital. The event was made even more special as Ruby, a patient of the service, marked her 100th birthday—creating a meaningful connection to the ‘Ruby’ theme. This memorable occasion highlighted the invaluable support provided by Age Concern Hampshire in ensuring older people receive the care and assistance they need. 

In partnership with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, the Hospital to Home service is committed to actively engaging with patients during their hospital stay, offering tailored support and guidance to ensure a smooth, safe, and timely discharge from the wards to their homes. By addressing individual needs and coordinating essential care, the service helps to reduce hospital readmissions and enables older adults to regain their independence with confidence and security. 

Ruby Anniversary

Throughout the year, Age Concern Hampshire will be hosting a variety of events, bringing together service users, volunteers, supporters, and the wider community. These events will include fundraising activities, awareness campaigns, and celebratory gatherings aimed at acknowledging the contributions of those who have helped the charity thrive over the past four decades. 

“As we mark 40 years of supporting older people in Hampshire, we take great pride in the positive impact we have made through our services, including Hospital to Home,” said Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising & Volunteering at Age Concern Hampshire. “Our Ruby Anniversary is more than just a reflection on our history—it is an opportunity to engage with our community, celebrate our achievements, and reinforce our commitment to enhancing the lives of older people.” 

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.  

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

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 Launches New CRM System to Revolutionise Day Care for Older People

ACH New System

Age Concern Hampshire, a leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people across the region, is excited to announce the launch of its pioneering new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. Developed in partnership with Dom Portal and powered by Zoho CRM, this bespoke, state-of-the-art technology, will transform the delivery of day care services, strengthen connections with families, and ensure the highest quality of care for older people. 

By centralising information in one easy-to-access platform, the system will reduce administrative time, allowing teams to focus fully on enhancing the day services provided in each of its four Care and Wellbeing Centres across the county, enabling them to spend time on care. Real-time updates will ensure that staff are easily informed of any changes or updates to that day’s schedule, leading to quicker and more efficient responses.   

This innovative approach will not only improve the overall experience for those receiving care but will also enable Age Concern Hampshire to extend its reach and support to even more individuals in the community. 

ACH New System

The new CRM system is built to improve communication both within Age Concern Hampshire and with the families of those in its care. It will provide families with easy access to information about their loved ones’ daily activities, participation and meals, helping them stay informed and engaged in the care process, while promoting peace of mind. 

“We are delighted to launch this new CRM system, which we believe will revolutionise the way we deliver care to older people in Hampshire,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “This technology will allow us to build stronger relationships with families, improve communication, and ensure that each individual receives the best possible care. We are committed to providing the highest standards of support, and this system is a key part of achieving that goal.”  

This investment represents a significant milestone in Age Concern Hampshire’s commitment to delivering the highest quality care to older people. The cutting-edge solution is specifically designed to address the rising demand for personalised, efficient, and person-centred care as the population continues to age. 

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.  

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

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 

Make 2025 the Year of Giving Back with Age Concern Hampshire

Age Concern Hampshire

With the arrival of 2025, Age Concern Hampshire is seeking more compassionate individuals to volunteer and support older people across the county. As the ageing population continues to grow, the charity’s work is more important than ever, and additional volunteers are needed to make a meaningful impact in the community. 

As an independent charity, they are committed to improving the lives of older people through specialist care at their Care and Wellbeing Centres and vital services that promote independence, playing a key role in enhancing the quality of life for older individuals, their carers, and families. 

Volunteering with Age Concern Hampshire offers more than just an opportunity to give time, it provides a chance to build meaningful connections and ensure that older people feel valued and supported. Whether it’s an hour a week or more, each contribution can help provide companionship, practical support, and a lifeline to those who need it most. 

Age Concern Hampshire

To address the increasing demands of Hampshire’s ageing population, volunteers are sought for a range of roles, including: 

  • Supporting Care and Wellbeing Centres, which offer activities, social interaction, and day care services. 
  • Helping to run social groups in areas like Basingstoke and the New Forest, creating community and connection among older residents. 
  • Assisting with initiatives like the Information Service providing essential guidance and resources. 
  • Offering practical support with form-filling, helping older people access benefits and services. 
  • Reception support for our Foot Care Clinics, which provide toenail cutting to help maintain health and mobility. 
  • Administrative support across our services, to ensure smooth and efficient operations. 
  • Support on rehabilitation wards in Community Hospitals in Alton, Gosport and Petersfield.  

Kate Harrison, Volunteer Coordinator at Age Concern Hampshire, praised the charity’s volunteers, saying: “The support we provide to clients and their carers wouldn’t be possible without our amazing team of dedicated and passionate volunteers. Many have supported us for years, finding real enjoyment and fulfilment in their roles, as well as the social benefits volunteering brings.” 

Age Concern Hampshire is also seeking passionate individuals for leadership roles, including Trustee and Deputy Chair positions. These positions offer a unique opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction of the charity, helping shape its future and navigate the challenges ahead. 

As many businesses continue to incorporate corporate social responsibility (CSR) into their operations, Age Concern Hampshire is also actively seeking partnerships with corporations. This includes opportunities for employee volunteer programs and joint campaigns, aiming to expand the reach and impact of the charity’s essential services. 

If you would like to make a difference and be part of this meaningful journey, please contact Age Concern Hampshire at 01962 868545 to learn more about volunteering opportunities or visit their website: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/volunteer-hampshire/give-time-by-volunteering/ 

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 their 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 

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