For many Christmas is a time of celebration but for over half a million elderly people they will be on their own this festive season. One organisation that strives to help those in need is AGE UK Lincoln.
They provide a gift that lasts well beyond Christmas, companionship. For some elderly people, this is a lifeline to getting out of the house.
Myra Cliff, Administrative Assistant at the Park Lane Activity Center for Age UK says: “the organisation is a bit like a youth club for the over 50’s.
“It’s a place where people can come during the week and access a wide range of activities,” she begins. “From computer lessons, a hairdresser and a foot-health practitioner.”
Carol Foster is a volunteer for Age UK Lincoln and decided to get involved with the organisation after her husband passed away.
“Working with the activity center was my way of filling the days up. To be perfectly honest, I get as much out of it as the customers do,” she said.
However, Age UK Lincoln is extremely short of volunteers. Ms Cliff has urged people to get involved as there is “something for everyone.”
“Whether you’re a student with a bit of spear time, or if you have recently been bereaved it’s the perfect way to give something back and do something with your free time.
“People say ‘I wouldn’t do something for nothing’ but I say ‘you are’ and that ‘you can really make a difference.
If you want to give a gift this Christmas that will last into 2013, and volunteer for Age UK Lincoln call Gary Burr on 01522 696000 – Volunteering coordinator.
For more details visit www.ageuk.org.uk/Lincoln
