Age UK supported over 50,000 people, says new report

A new report into Age UK, which has a base in Blackburn, also revealed the oldest person to benefit from its service was 111 years of age. 

The charity reached 52,910 individuals including older people, carers and family members during the 2022/23 period.

More than 72,000 hours were dedicated to tackling loneliness and their free 0300 Helpline received a record 33,931 enquiries to support with 'a range of health and care issues, claiming benefits, housing options and signposting to local services'.

Age UK Lancashire has been supporting older people in Lancashire for 78 years. 

The impact report for the year looks at how the charity has increased the number of dementia services available in the county, and supported over 320 people living with dementia through 1-2-1 and group sessions. 

A total of 9,148 people also received support from Age UK Lancashire’s Hospital Aftercare team and more than 100 veterans benefited from the ‘Connecting Veterans in the Community’ project.

Teri Stephenson, chief executive of Age UK Lancashire, said: “Age UK Lancashire exists to give older people in Lancashire a better later life and we are delighted with the impact we have had over the past 12 months. 

“Behind each impact is someone’s story, such as Eunice, and this is what we are really passionate about; being accessible to older people and tailoring our services to support their needs.

“I want to thank all our partners and supporters, without whom we could not have the same impact for older people. 

“We know there is so much more we can do, and the cost-of-living crisis and ageing population has meant the demand for our services has increased and will continue to increase each year.”

The oldest person who has received support by Age UK was 111 years old, while the charity has helped older people claim £2.44 million in previously unclaimed benefits they are entitled to to improve people's quality of life.