Age Cymru in Powys is looking for “Christmas Angels” to help older people over the festive period.
The Charity’s new Winter Wellbeing Programme is calling for local people to become Christmas Angels and help ensure that older Powys residents are not left lonely over the festive period.
The programme is a new “holistic initiative” is offering a variety of services, including face-to-face or telephone friendship, free Home Energy Checks, help with the Cost-of-Living, and advice and support on any matter that may be affecting their quality of life.
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“Christmas can be a lonely time for older people, especially those who are isolated or have lost loved ones,” said Gail Colbridge, chief officer at Age Cymru Powys.
“This simple act of kindness from our Christmas Angels provides much-needed friendship to older Powys residents, helping them to feel connected and valued.
“We are calling on people of all ages and backgrounds to reach out as Christmas Angels. We match people with shared interests and our opportunities are flexible to fit around you.
“A small amount of time of just an hour or so a week, can make a big difference to the life of an older person this Christmas.”
It is hoped the “Christmas Angels” will play a vital role in Winter Wellbeing by checking in with older people to offer companionship and support.
This could be just “having a cup of tea and a chat, a weekly friendship call, playing games, or simply listening to the older person's stories and memories”.
Research has shown 220,000 older people in Wales say they feel lonely and Age Cymru has said older people with disabilities or ill-health are facing “unprecedented challenges” as they struggle with spiralling fuel and food costs.
According to Age Cymru this is made worse by “the stigma some older people feel about applying for support which they’re entitled to” this has lead to an estimated £200 million of pension credit goes unclaimed each year in Wales.
The Winter Wellbeing Programme is seeking local people across Powys to get involved in a variety of ways, with something to suit everyone:
• Winter walking - Group or 1:1
• Winter gardening - Plant bulbs, encourage wildlife in an older person's garden
• Form-filling - support to fill in basic forms
• Technology support - To open up the digital world
• Winter driving - To appointments, shopping trips, social events
To get involved you can get in contact by ringing 01686 623707 or emailing enquiries@acpowys.org.uk
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