If you're an older person in Gateshead or Newcastle feeling isolated or struggling to get the support you need, help could soon be closer at hand. Two local charities have just secured £300,000 in funding that will directly expand the services available to older residents across both areas over the next three years.
Age UK Gateshead and Connected Voice have received this substantial boost from the UK Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund, recognising the vital role they play in supporting older people who might otherwise slip through the cracks. For many families watching elderly relatives struggle with loneliness or daily tasks, this funding represents a lifeline that could make all the difference.
Connected Voice, which works to strengthen voluntary and community groups across Newcastle and Gateshead, will use their share to support smaller, grassroots organisations working directly with older people. This means more local groups will have the resources to offer help where it's needed most – whether that's in your neighbourhood or in communities that have traditionally been harder to reach.
Meanwhile, Age UK Gateshead will focus on expanding their direct services to older residents. This could mean new programmes to tackle the loneliness that affects so many older people, practical help with everyday tasks that become more challenging with age, or simply more opportunities to meet others and stay connected to your community.
The three-year commitment is particularly important – it means these organisations can plan ahead and develop comprehensive programmes rather than worrying about short-term funding gaps. Both charities already have strong track records of delivering everything from advice services to befriending schemes and community activities that genuinely make a difference to people's daily lives.
This investment reflects a growing understanding that supporting older people to live independently isn't just the right thing to do – it makes practical sense for everyone. When older residents get the help they need to stay active and connected, it benefits entire communities whilst reducing pressure on overstretched health and social care services.