Age UK Tunbridge Wells

Age UK Tunbridge Wells is an independent local charity dedicated to supporting older people and their families in the Tunbridge Wells area. Established over 30 years ago, the organization works to enhance the quality of life for older adults through a variety of services and activities designed to promote wellbeing, independence, and social engagement.

History and Background

Founded as a community-focused charity, Age UK Tunbridge Wells has developed a strong presence in the local area, delivering tailored support over three decades. The charity operates as a private limited company by guarantee, registered under company number 07956458 since February 20, 2012. It is registered with the UK Charity Commission under charity number 1147675.

Mission and Objectives

Age UK Tunbridge Wells aims to enable older people to love later life by providing practical support, advice, and opportunities to socialize and learn new skills. The charity’s key objective is to help older adults maintain their independence and improve their wellbeing in a safe and supportive environment.

Services

The organization offers a wide range of services catering to the diverse needs of older people and their carers in the Tunbridge Wells community:

• Information and Advice: Age UK Tunbridge Wells provides free, confidential advice on various topics, including benefits, health, and housing. Trained advisors help older people claim entitled benefits, having supported clients to claim over £250,000 in one year alone.

• Home Support: The charity offers home help services such as shopping assistance, cleaning, and gardening to support older adults in maintaining their homes and daily routines.

• Befriending: Volunteer befrienders provide companionship to over 300 isolated older people annually, helping to alleviate loneliness by offering regular social visits.

• Day Centre Activities: The day centre runs various groups and events, including lunch clubs and exercise classes, fostering social interaction and physical activity.

• Dementia Support: Age UK Tunbridge Wells delivers dementia outreach support with one-on-one activities and runs Memory Cafes to create safe, welcoming spaces for people living with dementia to meet and share experiences.

• Digital Inclusion: Recognizing the challenges of digital exclusion, the charity offers support for older adults to access technology, participate in video calls, and stay informed about local services.

Staffing and Volunteers

The charity employs approximately 30 staff members and engages over 50 volunteers who contribute to service delivery and operational support. This team works collaboratively to create a responsive and compassionate network for older adults in the community.

Funding

Age UK Tunbridge Wells relies on public donations, income from charity shops, and grants to fund its activities and services. The charity emphasizes community support to maintain and expand its outreach.

Location

The charity's main office and day centre are located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent.

Age UK Tunbridge Wells plays a crucial role in the local social care landscape by providing essential services that support older people’s independence and social inclusion in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas.

[1] https://www.ageuk.org.uk/tunbridgewells/ [2] https://www.ageuk.org.uk/tunbridgewells/about-us/ [3] https://www.ageuk.org.uk/tunbridgewells/our-services/information-and-advice-eea53749-b094-ec11-826d-00155d80c82a/ [4] https://www.ageuk.org.uk/tunbridgewells/our-services/ [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07956458