Collecting people’s warm generosity Hundreds of older people across our county are in danger of becoming ill each winter because of the cold weather. Our Winter Warmth Appeal saves lives, helping older people stay warm and healthy during the colder months. Winter 2021-22 was a recordbreaking year for the appeal. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we raised £222,819, which our delivery partners used to make 1,319 grants, benefiting 1,751 people, more than in any year since the appeal started in 2010. The appeal works in partnership with the four Age UK organisations across Cumbria and Copeland Age & Advice Service (CAAS). One of the great benefits of working with them as partners is that they develop a personal relationship with the people who apply for a grant, which means they can carry out a range of wellbeing checks. They can check their eligibility for benefits and help them apply, signpost them to other support and engage those who are isolated in activities and local groups. This year, more than any previous years, the Winter Warmth grant is crucial for older people to be able to afford to turn on the heating. Bluntly put, it could be the difference between life and death for many of our most vulnerable clients. - Hannah Kitching, Age UK South Lakeland 103-year-old veteran, Thomas Hodgson, from West Cumbria received a grant last winter. Thomas fought for his country during the second World War, and he is still full of determination. He joined the Royal Engineers in 1940 at the age of 20 and when the army asked for parachuting volunteers, he literally jumped at the chance and joined the 7th Parachute Battalion. For many older people, the past two years have been very difficult, particularly during the the pandemic which meant not being able to have family and friends around them. Thomas remains positive and the team from CAAS are there when he needs help and advice. When asked about the Winter Warmth grant, he said: It’s grand. The extra funding is very helpful, and I must thank the people who look after me with the grant. The cost-of-living crisis means that the challenges facing the vulnerable elderly will be greater still this winter. They need your help more than ever before. If you’d like to donate, visit: www.cumbriafoundation.org/ winter-warmth-fund 11
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