Age UK Lancashire urge people not to become isolated by freezing weather
Age UK Lancashire say their helpline is open for anyone with any concerns
Last updated 24th Jan 2024
As the freezing temperatures across Lancashire are set to continue up to this weekend - there's a plea for us to check on our vulnerable and elderly neighbours.
Snow and ice warnings are still in place across our region and with the arctic blast is expected to last a few more days there's warnings the freezing weather could lead to elderly people being isolated across.
Age UK Lancashire run a helpline dedicated to helping older people, last year this saw a 50% surge in calls over the winter months.
Zoe Wiggins from the charity says the harsh weather and treacherous conditions can drive people indoors: "The winter months are tough for older people, the days are very short.
"Particularly on days like today where its snowing and it'll turn icy people don't want to go out, they're frightened of going out."
"They don't want to risk slipping so it does potentially lead to isolation for a lot of older people."
Zoe added that they see an influx of calls when its cold: "Their worries are exacerbated because of the cold temperatures.
"People are frightened to put the heating on and those soundbites about heating versus eating are very real."
Age UK Lancashire is self-sufficient and relies on donations. They are currently running their winter appeal to help raise funds for their information helpline which received a surge in call during winter.
You can find more details on their website, More Than A Call. Age UK Lancashire's Winter Appeal or donate £3 by texting ‘CALL’ to 70450