With the cold weather fast approaching, a new Winter Wellbeing programme is calling for local people to become Christmas Angels and help ensure that older Powys residents are not left lonely over the festive period.

The Winter Wellbeing Programme, launched by Age Cymru Powys, is a new holistic initiative designed to help older people in Powys stay warm, safe, and healthy during the winter months. Offering a variety of services, including face-to-face or telephone friendship, free Home Energy Checks, help with the Cost-of-Living, and advice and support on any matter that may be affecting their quality of life.

Christmas Angels play a vital role in the Winter Wellbeing programme by checking in with older people to offer companionship and support. Having a cup of tea and a chat, a weekly friendship call, playing games, or simply listening to the older person's stories and memories.

Gail Colbridge, Chief Officer at Age Cymru Powys said: “Christmas can be a lonely time for older people, especially those who are isolated or have lost loved ones. This simple act of kindness from our Christmas Angels provides much-needed friendship to older Powys residents, helping them to feel connected and valued.

“We are calling on people of all ages and backgrounds to reach out as Christmas Angels. We match people with shared interests and our opportunities are flexible to fit around you.

“A small amount of time of just an hour or so a week, can make a big difference to the life of an older person this Christmas.”

 220,000 older people in Wales say they feel lonely. Right now, older people with disabilities or ill-health are facing unprecedented challenges as they struggle with spiralling fuel and food costs. 

 Equally challenging is the stigma some older people feel about applying for support which they’re entitled to. An estimated £200 million of pension credit goes unclaimed each year in Wales.

The Winter Wellbeing Programme is seeking local people across Powys to get involved in a variety of ways, with something to suit everyone:

•              Winter walking - Group or 1:1

•              Winter gardening - Plant bulbs, encourage wildlife in an older person's garden

•              Form-filling - support to fill in basic forms

•              Technology support - To open up the digital world

•              Winter driving - To appointments, shopping trips, social events

 

Research has shown that volunteering can be beneficial for your own health and wellbeing – doing good makes you feel good. Signing up to be a Winter Wellbeing Volunteer is easy – contact Age Cymru Powys and they will do the rest:

 

01686 623707