An historic charity founded by an Elizabethan benefactor has given a six-figure funding boost to London’s vulnerable older people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
The Emanuel Hospital charity, set up in 1600 and administered by the City of London Corporation, has awarded a grant of £655,154 to Age UK to support thousands of older people across the capital.
The funding will go to 22 local Age UKs across London, who will use it to offer information and advice sessions on topics including claiming benefits, saving energy, eating well on a budget and avoiding scams.
It has been made available in acknowledgement of the increased demand on Age UK’s services caused by the cost-of-living crisis. The charity’s services provide a lifeline to vulnerable older people struggling to make ends meet amid rising costs.
Research shows that even before this year’s sharp increase in inflation, 15% of pensioners in the UK were in poverty, the equivalent of 1.7 million people[i].
Chairman of the City of London Corporation Emanuel Hospital Management Sub Committee Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli said:
“Rising prices, not least in the cost of fuel and basic food staples, are having an impact on everyone, but many older people are particularly vulnerable as winter begins to bite.
“The advice and support Age UK provides can have a profound effect on enabling older people to access financial support they may otherwise be missing out on, and valuable practical and emotional support in their area.”
Last year, the Emanuel Hospital charity gave £325,188 to Age UK to fund its Telephone Friendship Service and other support services to help older Londoners impacted by the pandemic.
Paul Farmer, Age UK CEO, said: “We are extremely grateful for the latest grant from Emanuel Hospital, which comes at a really critical time for many older Londoners. Too many of them are already struggling to cope with rising prices for everyday items and are dreading the colder weather arriving and the challenge of heating their home on a low fixed income.
“The funding will help local Age UKs across London to provide vital frontline services to older people who risk being overwhelmed by high inflation. It will enable these local charities to offer advice and practical support, for example, with claiming the benefits that older people are due but which many miss out on, and staying warm and well when winter really takes hold.”
Details of Age UK services in London are at www.ageuk.org.uk/services/in-your-area/
