Maria Bunce, Chief Officer Age UK Isle of Wight, shares this latest news from the charity. Ed
As the Chief Officer of Age UK Isle of Wight, I want to take a moment to address the challenges we are currently facing and the role our community plays in supporting older individuals on the Isle of Wight.
For over fifty years, our charity has proudly served as a lifeline for older people, helping them to live independently, with dignity, and on their own terms, with records to date showing we have supported over 100,000 people.
Local charity operating independently of Age UK
We are a local charity, affiliated with Age UK, but we operate independently and solely on the funds we raise here on the Isle of Wight. Currently, the increasing demand for our services is outpacing our available resources.
Last year alone, we received over 15,000 calls and supported over 4,800 clients with numerous other anonymous support delivered. The reality is, while we are dedicated to providing services like our Good Neighbour Scheme and Information and Signposting, we have had to rely on reserve funding to meet the growing needs of our community since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Costs higher than income
This year, we have seen again an alarming trend; we are spending more than we receive, and without financial support, we face the very real possibility of having to reduce services that so many people depend on.
While charity reserves have allowed increasing demands to be met, they cannot be seen as a sustainable solution.
£3 can start a support journey
It costs Age UK Isle of Wight £3 to respond to a call into our main line, with each call representing the beginning of a support journey for individuals in their time of need.
If we cannot fund the demand for this service, we must ask ourselves who will answer the phone when someone reaches out for help? Who will initiate the support that can change lives?
Every penny raised stays on the Island
We understand that many people may perceive us as a larger charity, but the reality is that every penny raised stays right here on the Isle of Wight, directly benefiting our local community.
We are not just a brand name; we are your neighbours, your friends, and your family members working tirelessly to support those who need it most.
Your support needed
We can no longer shy away from asking for the support we desperately need. We must be bold in our appeal for donations and funding support. Your contributions are not just financial; they are a commitment to ensuring that older people in our community are valued, included, and heard.
I urge you to consider supporting Age UK Isle of Wight – as little as £3 can begin a journey. Together, we can ensure that our older residents receive the assistance they deserve, and that our services continue to thrive. Thank you for standing with us in this critical time.
