Since 2016 each December Age UK Isle of Wight have teamed up with Megan Baker Estate Agents in an effort to raise awareness about local loneliness.
Each year Age UK Isle of Wight campaign for support for either monetary donations or for donations of time; The local charity’s award winning Good Neighbour Scheme aims to recruit volunteer support for their Island-wide befriending program.
A rise in ‘Good Neighbour’ volunteers
Whilst the cost of living has impacted monetary donations for the year (£2,288 raised in December 2022), volunteer recruitment has increased with many people coming forward to help the Good Neighbour Scheme to provide vital companionship through face-to-face and telephone befriending to older Island residents with no one to turn to.
All funds raised, stay on the Island, helping Age UK Isle of Wight to continue to provide support and companionship through its social inclusion services.
To find out about the many volunteering opportunities Age UK Isle of Wight have available you can visit the Website or call 01983 525282 today.
If you are lonely, your local Age UK Isle of Wight is here to support you
Allison O’Brien Fury, Good Neighbour Scheme leader said,
“2022 saw the seventh year of the annual campaign and looking back, through the generosity of our amazing Island community and wonderfully supportive sponsors Megan Baker Estate Agents, we have been able to raise over £23,000 to date and have recruited many local volunteers to support such an important cause.
“I would like to remind everyone that if you are lonely, your local Age UK Isle of Wight is here to support you and to please get in touch today.”
Age UK Isle of Wight’s Website also hosts a ‘Winter Support Hub’ filled with information and advice about the many services that are available to support those in need this Winter.
Alternatively, you can call them on (01983) 525282 to find out more about how they can support you or a loved one.
News shared by Elisha on behalf of Age UK Isle of Wight. Ed
