Age UK have done a magnificent job in providing a lock-down lifeline for thousands of older people across the length and breadth of the country. Since March, the charity has been offering invaluable support by ensuring essential medical and food supplies are delivered to people’s homes.

I have been well aware of the exceptional work Age UK does throughout the community for many years, and I have been very fortunate to have performed magic at their lively fundraising events. These occasions are always very well attended and are opportunities to celebrate their work supporting isolated and vulnerable people.

Indeed, I was delighted that the charity accepted my application to assist with food and medical deliveries when the lockdown started. There are a lot of people around Nottingham in the over 70 age group who have been confined to their homes since March, and it has been a tremendously challenging time for them to say the least. Some elderly people may not have friends or family close at hand, so Age UK has provided an essential network for them. I have been very fortunate and privileged to have been part of this team and witness first hand the difference the charity makes.

‘Without the help of Age UK, I have no idea how we would have coped’ reflected Mrs Fletcher, whose husband was hospitalised during lockdown and has thankfully since recovered from the virus. ‘The weekly food and medical deliveries have taken a large weight off our minds and really helped to reduce the stress levels!’ 

Working with Age UK has been a hugely enriching experience and has provided me with some much needed structure each week during this chaotic time. I always look forward to the deliveries,  chatting to different people and listening to their experiences and perspectives. The crisis has made me even more thankful for being fit and healthy, and also revealed the tremendous amount of good will within the community. Local food store employees and pharmacists have been very keen to assist, and gone above and beyond to ensure that vital supplies reach the people who need them most.

Well done to Age UK in coming to the aid of so many people during the crisis, and for all the other fantastic work you continue to do! Why not volunteer, donate or find out more about Age UK at: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/