This winter we will be helping older people get the financial support they’re entitled to, so they can pay their bills.  We will be delivering practical services that help people to continue living independently in their own homes and we will be providing meaningful social activities in warm and friendly local venues.  Take the example of Mrs Jones*, who was helped by our Home Response volunteers last winter:

Mrs Jones, a 69 year-old woman who lives alone, had two falls in a short period of time causing severe bruising to her face and a broken ankle – as a result of which she lost her confidence and was fearful of going out.  We were able to help with her shopping for a few weeks until she was fit enough to walk outside.  We then accompanied her to the shops, enabling her to regain her confidence gradually, with the reassurance that she had help if walking became painful.  Once she felt able to go out alone we discharged her from the service.  During the snow and ice we contacted her again and were able to help with her shopping, thus preventing another fall.

With your support we can help many more people, with a wide range of needs.  Sometimes the very simple things that most of us take for granted can make a huge difference:

Take Miss Henry* who lost the use of one of her arms as a result of a stroke.  She had been going to bed at 6.30 pm because she could not reach up to close the curtains, and felt vulnerable sitting in her front room alone with the light on, visible to passers-by.  Thanks to our Handyperson fixing a drawing mechanism, she can stay up, watch TV and go to bed when she wants to.

This Christmas, support a charity which really makes a difference.  Every gift is spent locally (we are not part of Age UK).  Please support Age Concern Kingston upon Thames and help us make later life a greater life for older people in our local community.

Thank you for reading this appeal.  Please give what you can - click to donate now.