WITH MANY PEOPLE finding Christmas to be the loneliest time of year, Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire has launched the ‘Together, we’re not alone’ campaign.
The charity have released new statistics to demonstrate how tough the festive period will be for some people.
Age UK’s research has found that 650,000 older people in the West Midlands hope to receive a call from someone on Christmas Day and 320,000 said they feel comforted knowing there are helplines and services available if they need a chat or some support over Christmas.
Routine public services winding down, shops closing early or shutting completely, combined with harsher weather conditions and shorter days, make it harder to sustain social connections.
Michael Garrett, chief executive at Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire said: “Our charity provides support and gives advice, but sometimes just being offered a listening ear is all that’s needed to lift spirits and so our telephone befriending service is especially in demand over this period.
“Clients say that some days they don’t use their voice at all, but for that to happen on Christmas Day, when you know neighbouring houses are full of joy and sharing- it is particularly painful.
“Expecting and receiving a phone call makes them feel they are not forgotten.
“Ask yourself, could you change what you normally do this Christmas and spend more time with your older relatives, friends or neighbours – especially those who live alone?
“Could you send a card to show you’re thinking of them or could you donate to Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire’s campaign so we can spread comfort, friendship and joy to older people when they need it most?”
The charity have also launched its Loneliness Guide which features the charity’s latest information and advice on the subject as well as bringing together lived experiences from different focus groups
Visit: ageuk.org.uk/loneliness-guide/ for more information – a free paper copy can also be delivered.
Visit: ageuk.org.uk/coventryandwarwickshire/get-involved/donate/ to donate.
