2 minute read
Age UK
AGE UKa friend that’s here to help
Whilst the last 12 months has been a time that many would like to forget, it has also been a period that has brought out the best in our communities and has shown that, when we come together, we can find a way.
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Local charities such as Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch and Wyre Forest have seen an unprecedented rise in demand for support and services, whilst at the same time the traditional funding sources to support this work, including charity shops, have all been impacted by the pandemic.
Like many organisations, Age UK BRWF has had to adapt. When the first lockdown was announced, we quickly looked at ways to move our Information & Advice service, which mainly provided face-to-face appointments and home visits, to a telephone-based service.
Reflecting on 2020, I&A Advisor Sarah said: “When the coronavirus restrictions were initially announced we thought that it was going to be impossible to do our job but over the last few months we have shown that we can be flexible, we can adapt and are open to change.”
Whilst it takes more preparation, for example contacting a person in advance to make sure that they have the relevant documentation to hand, Sarah and the rest of the team are now completing benefit checks and attendance allowance forms over the phone.
“We have adapted to the necessary changes to our way of working, overcome most difficulties with the use of modern technology and the support of the team, to ensure that we can continue to provide personalised, confidential support to older people living in our communities,” Sarah added.
Our ‘At Home’ team also quickly responded to government guidelines, implementing a series of measures, along with additional PPE, to ensure that the service was Covid-secure so clients could continue to receive the support that they needed.
Whilst the practical support, from shopping, general housework, preparing meals to jobs around the home, has helped people to stay safe and independent at home, regular visits from our team have also had a big impact on the overall wellbeing of our clients. One of our home workers summed it up by saying: “I am just a friend that has come to help.” For more information about the help and services that Age UK BRWF provides, along with how you can support the charity, call 01527 570490 or visit
