Support for older people living alone
We fund Age UK Solihull to provide a Linking People Together service to help older people feel less lonely and increase their independence.
Linking People Together service
The Linking People Together service includes:
- one-to-one befriending
- access to community-based activities
Who can access this service
This service is for people who:
- are over 65
- live in Solihull
- feel socially isolated and/or lonely
The Age UK Solihull website provides further information on eligibility.
If you are not eligible for this service, you can find out about other support at:
One-to-one befriending
The befriending service links you with a trained volunteer who will visit you at home or talk to you over the phone. It is a free service tailored to your individual needs.
"The Age UK befriending service has been a lifesaver for me. Back problems made it hard for me to get out and about, which meant living alone became very isolating. Old friends had either moved on or lived too far away to visit regularly. I was delighted when Age UK Solihull suggested I join their befriending service. I thought, 'why not? It will be a chance to meet someone new.’”
For home visits, volunteers will usually visit you once a week for an hour to sit and chat, enjoy activities or simply provide company.
Telephone befriending involves a volunteer calling you once or twice a week for a chat to provide company and support with wellbeing.
Access to community activities
Age UK Solihull offers regular clubs and activities to help you meet other people in your local community and make new friends.
“When I started coming here, I needed help with getting disability allowance. The people here helped me to fill in the forms - it has made a big difference to me. I’ve also met friends and the activities and entertainment are good.”
You can find out more on the Age UK Solihull website or by contacting Age UK Solihull on 0121 704 7811 or activities@ageuksolihull.org.uk
This video highlights some of the benefits of taking part in community activities and clubs.