Winter Appeal raises £17,261 to support vulnerable older people

Thanks to the kindness and generosity of our donors, our Winter Appeal has raised an amazing £17,261 to help support our Grants Programme, helping 324 vulnerable older people through the cold winter months.

“Our Grants Programme supports older people on low incomes across England and Wales, helping them afford the basics and stay safe and well.

With 1.9 million pensioners living in relative poverty in 2023/24, and this forecast to rise to 3.9 million in the coming years, our Winter Appeal is more important than ever,” said Rachel Hill, Friends of the Elderly’s Chief Executive Officer.

One of those the Grants Programme supported is Helen*, who received a grant through the Winter Appeal.

“The grant has made a huge difference,” said Helen. “I lost over three stone due to medical conditions, none of my clothes fit and I had no money to buy new clothes. Energy bills are so high, I am struggling. I was trying to layer up at home, but I didn’t even have a warm coat.

“Thanks to Friends of the Elderly, I was able to buy a lovely warm winter coat that zips all the way to the top. If I hadn’t received the grant, I probably wouldn’t have been able to go out much, as I didn’t have a warm coat. I feel so much happier and confident.

“I volunteer for the visually impaired; one day you are helping people and suddenly you are the one that needs help. Things can change very quickly.

“Receiving the grant has made me feel like I am not on my own. You feel worried about getting help but it’s so wonderful to know someone out there cares and can help. It makes you realise how much it is needed and the difference it makes to people’s lives. It’s like being hugged.”

Sadly, Helen’s experience is far from unique.

“In 2023/24, 1.3 million older people were unable to afford basic essentials, and that number grew by 300,000 in the past year alone,(SN07096.pdf)

*** (The-State-of-Ageing-2025-interactive-summary.pdf)

click here for more details or to contact Friends of the Elderly