AGE UK Solihull has re-started its Later Life Goals programme following a Covid-19 pause, thanks to funds from the Masonic Charitable Foundation, the freemasons’ charity.
It means hundreds of lonely and isolated people in Solihull are set to benefit from the reopening with tailored advice and support.
Focusing on the wider goals that each older person wants to achieve, rather than solely on their immediate problems, the partnership between Age UK and the MCF aims to significantly improve the circumstances and quality of life of older people, helping them stay connected and feel less lonely.
Later Life Goals provides one-to-one support to older people who are going through major transitions in their lives that could have a serious impact on their wellbeing.
Initially delivered face-to-face, with the majority of older people being visited by Later Life Goals advisors in their own homes, the programme will now be delivered via telephone until it is safe and compliant with government guidelines to resume home visits.
Lucy Garratt, director of services at Age UK Solihull, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to reopen the Later Life Goals programme and are very grateful to the Masonic Charitable Foundation for their generous and ongoing support.
“We know this year has been tough and we urge anyone who may be struggling with difficult events to get in touch with Age UK Solihull to find out how we can help them.”
Keith Reynolds from Knowle Masonic Centre said: “I’m very pleased freemasonry has been able to support Age UK Solihull in helping so many isolated older people in our community.
“It’s shameful to admit that there are many older people who never have a meaningful conversation with another human being for weeks at a time, and this situation is made even worse by the necessary isolation as they try and avoid Covid-19.
“Never has Age UK been more needed than now.”
