King's Lynn building society supports charity campaign

Yorkshire Building Society colleagues in Lynn are supporting Age UK to help them to make this Christmas a little brighter for lonely older people.

Half-a-million older people in the UK are not looking forward to Christmas this year because they will be alone or don’t have anyone to spend it with.

The Helping A Brighter Christmas Happen campaign is part of Yorkshire Building Society’s two-year charity partnership with Age UK.

People in Lynn can buy Christmas decorations, cards and pin badges in aid of Age UK at the branch on New Conduit Street, to support the campaign.

Emma Smith, branch manager said: "It’s heart-breaking that half a million older people are not looking forward to Christmas this year due to loneliness.

"Through our helping a brighter Christmas happen campaign and our partnership with Age UK we are supporting them to improve the financial and emotional wellbeing of older people and helping them to have a brighter Christmas."

Colleagues are also providing four simple and practical tips that people can do to help older people feel included and supported over the festive season.

Sharing time together by checking in regularly with older relatives, friends and neighbours to see how they’re feeling, and find out if there’s anything they need.

Inviting them round for a coffee or lunch or if you’re unable to visit in person there’s still plenty you can do to show you care such as a phone or video call, making homemade cards, letters or even small gifts.

Lending a hand if you’re able to and being a good neighbour by offering simple, immediate assistance to older people nearby, such as offering to pick up shopping or run errands and ensuring you’re following all the relevant Covid-19 guidance and advice that might be in place.

Share these useful numbers for practical information and advice, Age UK Advice: 0800 169 65 65.

For a cheerful chat, day or night, The Silver Line Helpline: 0800 4 70 80 90.

Get involved and raise much-needed money and support for older people.

Speak to a Society colleague the next time you’re in your local branch to find out more on how you can get involved.

For more information on the partnership between Yorkshire Building Society and Age UK please visit here