MP Alan Mak has highlighted the “brilliant” work done by local charity Age UK, ahead of the Havant Older Persons’ Information Fair that he is hosting on Friday 14 October.
The group provides free, independent and confidential information and advice on a wide range of issues affecting people over the age of 50 in the local area. It comes as they get set to launch regular outreach sessions at Havant and Hayling Island libraries this autumn.
They will be exhibiting at the MP’s Fair alongside a wide range of businesses, government agencies, community groups and charities that work with or serve older people.
The free event at the Hayling Island Community Centre is open to everyone, including the friends, family, neighbours and carers of older people. The Islander is supporting the event as a media partner.
Benefit enquiries are the most common requests received by Age UK Portsmouth, and last year they were able to help claim over £1.1 million in benefits and grants for older people living in the area.
Other issues that the charity help with include housing choices, money matters, health and social care, staying independent at home, residential and nursing care, social activities and legal problems.
Mr Mak said: “Age UK is a wonderful local charity that provide a lifeline to local people. I am delighted that they are exhibiting at the first ever Havant Older Persons’ Information Fair. The event will be an excellent chance for older people, carers, family, friends and neighbours to get information about services offered in the community, and advice about problems they may have”
Age UK Portsmouth provide appointments at their centre, telephone and email advice and outreach and home visits.
Rory Massey, Operations Manager at Age UK’s local branch, said: “We are looking forward exhibiting at Alan’s Older Persons’ Information and hopefully we can further showcase the work we do on the ground in Hayling Island and across the constituency. If anyone over the age of 50 has any problems they shouldn’t hesitate to get in contact and our team will do the best they can to help.”
For more information please contact Age UK on 023 9286 2121.