Heart-Warming Response To Age UK York's 'Stamp Out Loneliness' Campaign

Positive response from the older community after receiving children's Christmas cards.

York is decorated with sparkling lights, bustling market stalls and beautiful Christmas trees.

It's officially acceptable to start the Christmas countdown and post your Christmas cards now that it's December.

Last month, Age UK York launched its winter campaign, 'Stamp Out Loneliness', which aims to raise awareness of loneliness in older people across York.

One of the key aspects of this campaign is for local school children to design and send Christmas cards to those who are alone this festive season.

These Christmas cards created by local school children have now been distributed to older people across York thanks to the heart-warming initiative from Age UK York.

The children's colourful, handmade cards, each with their own unique design and message have brought moments of happiness, joy, connection and festive cheer to their recipients who might otherwise be spending the winter season without much social contact.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive with over 200 cards already received and now being delivered throughout the community.

Independent Living Service Manager, Bev Ward said: "We've had such a heart-warming response when delivering the cards."

"The smiles on the faces of recipients mean everything and brighten our day as well as theirs."

Age UK York is continuing to deliver the cards in the run-up to Christmas and they are encouraging the community to stay mindful of their older neighbours, friends and relatives who may need companionship or support.

'Stamp Out Loneliness' aims to raise awareness and vital funds to support older people who may be struggling with loneliness, isolation, or financial hardship during the colder months.

You can help Age UK York by donating or volunteering.

Carl Wain, Age UK York Deputy Chief says: " Donations are incredibly important to help us do more for our older people through out befriending services and advice help line."

He continued, saying: "Demand for these services are very high and we can only do this with local funding and a team of volunteers."

Age UK York provides befriending services to older people in the city who are seeking companionship and just want someone to talk to, these services are very high in demand.

Carl Wain says: "Donations are incredibly important to help us do more for our older people through our befriending services and advice line."

"Anyone of any age can volunteer to spend one hour per week chatting, sharing stories, or simply offering companionship to those who are lonely."

"Many older people in York have asked for a bit of friendly social contact and the charity would love to match them up with volunteers who will receive training and support from the Age UK York staff team."

To support the 'Stamp Out Loneliness' campaign, visit: justgiving.com/campaign/stampoutloneliness  

For more information, to donate or to volunteer, please visit:
🌐 www.ageukyork.org.uk 
📞 Call: 01904 634061 
📧 Email: info@ageukyork.org.uk | volunteering@ageukyork.org.uk