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. 

 

 

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