15% PER CENT OF PEOPLE AGED 65 AND OVER SAY THEY WILL NOT USE THEIR HEATING AT ALL IN THE COMING MONTHS IN ORDER TO SAVE MONEY, A YOUGOV POLL OF 3,415 ADULTS CARRIED OUT ON BEHALF OF INDEPENDENT AGE FOUND.
As we know, the latest forecasts for energy bills are unprecedented and will be unaffordable for millions, including many pensioners who depend on their State Pension to make ends meet.
As we age it becomes harder to regulate our body temperature and we become more vulnerable to the effects of the cold. As a result we fear that because fuel prices will be so high, some older people will skip meals and switch off their heating to try to save money, putting their health at serious risk.
According to recent research from the Centre for Social Investigation there is a gap in the UK where a substantial number of older people living in food insecurity which is likely to become more severe with the impact of the rising cost of living crisis. Similarly, Pension Policy Institute has reported that the cost of living is increasing more quickly for pensioners than their income, with rises in housing and energy significantly impacting this group meaning those living alone and in poverty are unable to afford essentials such as food and are skipping meals.
We NEED you to help us support vulnerable older people through what is predicted to be one of the harshest winters...
We are urgently looking to offer Winter Warmer Clubs to support Older People from our Care and Wellbeing Centres and other venues located across the county. The Winter Warmer Club sessions will run on a daily basis with a 2 course nutritious lunch every day from 10.00 until 3.00.
Winter Warmer Clubs will provide vulnerable older people across Hampshire with an opportunity to get out of the house, meet friends and make new ones in a warm, friendly setting and be provided with a healthy 2 course hot meal. The Winter Warmer Clubs will help attendees deal with the cost of living crisis by providing a warm environment and access to a selection of interesting activities to keep beneficiaries stimulated and mobile this winter. The Clubs will be run by experienced staff with the support of a group of volunteers who wish to give something back and support their local community.
Sponsor an older person to stay warm and well this winter…
£150 per month will help provide access for an older person to attend a Winter Warmer Club once a week for 2 weeks
In order to launch the Winter Warmer Clubs as soon as possible we are urgently looking for sponsorship from our supporters. Whether your business can sponsor one session for one person over the winter or perhaps all the clients coming to one Winter Warmer Club venue, you will be making a tangible difference to older people in your local community. To raise the profile of your organisation we will publicise the brand on both our website and in the Winter Warmer venues.
Please get in touch to find out more at email enquiries@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk
Together we can make a difference to our local communities