Coronavirus has changed the lives of everyone in the UK, but this is particularly true for our older generation who remain amongst the most affected. Before coronavirus struck the nation, Independent Age was exploring how to strengthen collaboration with older people and local organisations with the aim of shaping a more active role in supporting communities. But right now, their focus is directed towards the current crisis.
GMCVO, working in partnership with 10GM, have launched a grants programme to support people from communities of identity or experience, based in Greater Manchester that may struggle to achieve higher levels of mental wellbeing.
The communities we want to reach are:
This is a brand new scheme for Elders from Refugee Communities. This scheme is designed to reduce social isolation, increase integration experiences and community connections and promote better overall health and wellness. Manchester Refugee Support Network (MRSN) will also be able to provide you with information about services for elderly people.
For more information click here
Working with the University of Manchester the Greater Manchester Combined Authority have produced a guide to help older people in Greater Manchester keep well while at home.
Europia have set up a befriending phone-line service for Polish people who are over-50 years old. Polish people will be able to ring 0161 826 3177 and have a chat with one of Europia’s Polish staff. This phone-line is for those who just want to talk to someone. Callers can discuss whatever they like. They can ask for advice about welfare or COVID-19, or they can just talk about how they are feeling.
It is reported that there are 1.2 million chronically lonely older people in the UK and that the number of over-50s experiencing loneliness is set to reach two million by 2025/6. This will undoubtedly be exacerbated by COVID-19 with people experiencing increased social isolation and loneliness due to the current pandemic.
The Women and Equalities Committee is launching an inquiry and they want to hear about the different and disproportionate impact that the Coronavirus – and measures to tackle it – is having on people with protected characteristics under the Equality Act.
What are protected characteristics?
It is against the law to discriminate against someone because of:
Creative City would like to invite you to create some art that helps remind elder neighbours who are having to reduce their contact with their community that we are thinking of them.
Your artwork will be sent to a Manchester retirement home or elder people’s community group for them to distribute,
Create something:
Age Friendly Manchester have complied a list of some local groups with details on what they are offering:
Are you living alone or in self isolation? Are you aged over 65? During this time of uncertainty would you like a daily telephone call? Wythenshawe Good Neighbours can match you to a telephone befriender.
For company, reassurance and to be signposted to other relevant agencies and support.