Annual Review 2019–2020

Loving Later Life in Introduction from the Chair and Director 3 Introduction from the Chair and Director Our Board and Other Offices 5 This report demonstrates how Age UK Sunderland has supported older (CIT) Living Well Links 6 people in the City this year, how we work and the services we provide. Hospital Discharge Service (HDS) 7 In addition to telling Age UK Sunderland’s story in facts and figures, the report looks Front Door Service (FDS) 9 at how we are furthering Age UK Sunderland’s fundamental purpose of promoting the wellbeing of older people across Sunderland by delivering a diverse range of FD Advocacy Service 11 high quality services to some of the most vulnerable people across the City. FD Community Support Clubs 12 FD Keeping in Touch (KIT) Service 13 Our Mission is: Lunch on Wheels 14 To promote and support the wellbeing of all older people throughout the , improve their quality of life and help them maintain independence. The Essence Service 15 As we moved into our 69th year, Age UK Sunderland has continued to remain Social Focus 17 dedicated to the delivery of a wide range of support services for the older people ActivAge 18 of Sunderland. Despite increasing financial constraints we provide much needed support to local people, with over 70,000 contacts from older people this year. Active Friends 19 Times are very challenging for charitable organisations and many of us face Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy 20 uncertainty, however despite these challenges during 2019/20, Age UK Sunderland Meaningful Connections 21 has secured funding to sustain many vital services. Information and Advice Service 23 March 2020 saw the outbreak of the pandemic COVID 19 which brought further Joining Forces 24 challenges, the organisation responded to the needs of older people via the realignment and development of services to meet emerging needs ensuring LIFEStyle Service 26 ongoing support for older people at a time when they needed us most.

Redwood Day Service 28 Through the work of Age UK Sunderland, older people are better able to: Metcalfe Dementia Support Service 29 • Improve or maintain their independence for longer Activities and Events 31 • Feel less socially isolated and lonely • Improve or maintain their health and wellbeing Campaigning 32 • Make informed choices Promotions and Marketing 34 • Feel safe and more secure Donations and Fundraising 36 • Enjoy a better later life Partnerships 39 Volunteering 42 News and Events 44 Coronavirus (COVID-19) 45 Acknowledgements 47

2 3 Our Board & Other Offices

President Her Worship the Mayor of Sunderland

Age UK Sunderland is driven by its quality standards and currently holds ISO Patrons Professor Peter Michael Fidler CBE, DL, MSc, RTPI 9001:2015, Age UK Charity Quality Standards (CQS) and this year successfully Lord-Lieutenant for Tyne & Wear, Mrs Sue Winfield OBE completed the AUK Information & Advice Quality Programme (I&AQP). We are also Sir Thomas Allen, CBE accredited with CHAS and hold a current certificate in Health & Safety. Chairman Mr Graeme Miller

As the Chair and Director of such a vibrant organisation, we are delighted and Vice-Chair Mr Roy McLachlan proud to be part of such a great team of staff and volunteers and we would like to thank everyone including our many partners across the city for their continued Hon. Treasurer Mrs Susan Ritchie support in improving the lives of older people in Sunderland. The Board Mrs Carol Harries Trustee Mrs Ann Lawson-McLean Trustee Mrs Dianne Hutchinson Trustee Mr David Teasdale Trustee Mr Matthew Jackson Trustee Ms Kelly Chequer Trustee Ms Selina Turner Trustee - Commenced 25.7.2019

Graeme Miller Tracy Collins Director Ms Tracy Collins Chair of Director of Age UK Sunderland Age UK Sunderland Company Secretary Ms Tracy Collins Solicitor McKenzie Bell

Auditors Read Milburn

Head Office Bradbury Centre, Stockton Road, Sunderland, SR2 7AQ Tel: 0191 5141131 Fax: 0191 5670378 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ageuksunderland.org.uk

Registered Charity No. 1086995

Registered Company No. 4199449

Area Offices Coalfields The Metcalfe Centre, Lee Terrace, Hetton-le-Hole, DH5 0AQ Tel: 0191 5269274 Email: [email protected]

Washington All enquiries regarding Washington should be directed to Age UK Sunderland

certified by Age UK Charity ✓ on 0191 514 1131 Quality Standard

Reg. No. 88Q10781

4 5 “Thank you to everyone involved. we are so pleased Community Integrated Teams (CIT) that Living Well Link Workers are in the community to help Living Well Links Social Prescribing Programme people like us.” Support for local people who need it most In Sunderland we know that only and wellbeing and support them to live as 3% of the population use over half independently as possible. the NHS healthcare budget and that The team act as a first point of contact to doesn’t include social care spending. support older people in their homes, care Funded by Sunderland CCG the Living Well homes and other community settings using Link Service works to support those people a person centred approach which includes primarily who: their families and carers to plan non- medical support that is based on the goals • Are 65 years old or over most important to them, ensuring older • Have two or more complex long term people receive the right support at the right health conditions time. • Face social challenges as a result of their health such as not knowing their benefit Between April 2019 and March 2020, a total entitlements or struggling to get out of of 951 older people were supported by the their homes Living Well Link Service and a total of 1,682 referrals or signposts (including assisted The service continues to be a great success signposting) onto other services were made. and our team are ensuring that the older people of Sunderland with long term conditions are supported to have a better quality of life within their communities.

The service is part of Sunderland’s Community Integrated Teams (CITs) which enables older people to access better, more integrated care outside of hospital, thus helping to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions.

The aim of the Living Well Link service is to put people living in Sunderland in personal control of their health and wellbeing by 1,682 referrals or signposts linking them into community support. (including assisted The Living Well Link Service provides social signposting) onto other support via social prescribing to older services have been made people in the identification of community assets and networks, with a dedicated Living Well Link Worker in each of the 951 five CITs providing a City wide service, older people have been linking older people to the services in the supported by the Living Well community that can improve their health Link Service during 2019/20

6 7 Hospital Discharge Service (HDS) Front Door Service (FDS) Actively reducing the re-admission of older people to hospital Social Prescribing Programme

Age UK Sunderland’s Hospital domestic work, shopping support and Enabling older people to stay independent longer Discharge team are based within signposting. Funded by Sunderland City Council & Social Prescribing interventions are provided the Discharge Lounge at Sunderland Some clients have requested ongoing NHS , Age UK Sunderland’s by a team of Front Door Living Well Link Royal Hospital (SRH). The Hospital support after the initial HDS support and Front Door social prescribing Workers who are supported by the wider Discharge Service (HDS) is funded by were then referred to other services to programme was implemented in FDS infrastructure. The team work directly Sunderland Clinical Commissioning support the individual on a longer term November 2018. The service provides with the older person as an interface Group (CCG) operating across the basis. low-level tailored support to enable supporting the referral process in to City of Sunderland for older people The HDS have once again had a very busy older people to stay independent for health, housing, social care and voluntary/ aged 60+. The Hospital Discharge year and continue to provide the service longer in their local community. community services. team works closely with staff within Monday to Friday each week. The demand The FDS offers a single point of contact The wider FDS infrastructure includes Age the SRH wards and discharge lounge. continues to increase due to the valued and extends access to information, UK Sunderland’s: The HDS focus on prevention to avoid service offered to clients following discharge early interventions and flexible low-level • Advocacy Service readmissions back to Hospital after from Hospital. the initial visit. community-based support to adults who • Information and Advice Service (income During 2019/20 the HDS supported 276 do not require intensive or specialised care maximisation) The team offers a flexible range of advice or support interventions from statutory older people throughout the City of • Community Support Clubs and support within the home. Working Sunderland and continues to build good services. • Keeping in Touch (KIT) Service with patients over a number of weeks after support systems with other professional discharge. The service includes assisting services and organisations ensuring • Volunteering Opportunities in meal preparation, helping with light older people receive a variety of support interventions. 861 patient contact within the Discharge Lounge and across Hospital Wards 276 older people supported “Excellent service, I don’t “Thank you think they could for all you have do anymore!” 321 signposting done, it is really and referrals appreciated, you have been 342 fantastic.” home visits

8 9 FD Advocacy Service “I just wish to say a big thank you Assisting older people to enable them to find their voice for everything. I appreciate the The interventions provided by choice and control over their Funding from the Big Lottery enabled the The Advocacy Service is essential in company and being the FDS Living Well Link team health. implementation of Age UK Sunderland’s ensuring that every older person has a voice have shown significant increases Advocacy Service which is accessible to to obtain the support they need to be able able to share our 55% of clients reported they in the wellbeing and confidence everyone aged over 50 and is the only one to speak up for themselves. experiences you needed support to establish of older people and in their of its kind in the City. have given me hope social interactions and support Often in later years, especially when people interactions within their local for the future and networks. The service is free of charge and provides are moving through life transitions such community. confidence to enable assistance to people who are experiencing as bereavement and health issues, life can During 2019/20 the FDS me to engage with Over 60% of clients who difficulty with resolving issues. The often prove to be complex and challenging. Living Well Link Workers have others. Keep up the accessed the FDS needed Advocacy Service aims to resolve problems supported over 800 new people During 2019/20 the Advocacy service brilliant service you support to become more ensuring that the client’s voice is heard, to reduce their loneliness and enabled older people to manage these independent as well as having avoiding negative impact on an older give to people in the social isolation. transition and this year alone has person’s health and wellbeing. community. Thank supported 429 clients to resolve nearly you very much.” Our two professional advocates work with 474 issues. volunteer advocates to liaise with and The Advocacy team has attended support the older people of Sunderland community events and provided outreach through a range of disputes. The advocates “Everything has surgeries to promote and raise awareness provide a selection of options from which helped, benefits, of the service. the client can determine their chosen lunch clubs, getting pathway. me out to socialise, Tablet training has helped me keep in touch with family, “Advocate was I’m moving to a very professional, new bungalow and kept in touch and helped resolve the this has been in part situation to the due to the Front best outcome.” Door Living Well Link Worker.” 429 people supported

“Just to say thank you for your support and visits from Age 805 new referrals 474 UK Sunderland. issues resolved You have been very helpful. God Bless.” £431,992.65 2 claimed on behalf of clients via welfare benefit entitlement volunteers

1310 1311 FD Community Support Clubs FD Keeping in Touch (KIT) Service Reducing social isolation We all know what it’s like to feel lonely but did you know that some older people regularly go an entire month Our Community Support Clubs bring of venues across all five localities of the people together to socialise with City. On average around 400 people attend without speaking to anyone? friends old and new and at the same clubs each week. Information is gathered about hobbies, time offer the opportunity to join in Loneliness is a growing issue for older All the venues are welcoming and people. Over half of people aged 75 likes and dislikes, even the person’s previous with activities and enjoy a nutritious comfortable and run by our friendly and and over live alone, and 1 in 10 people employment to ensure, whenever possible, meal. dedicated Age UK Sunderland volunteers aged 65 or over say they are always or just the right volunteer can be matched to who provide support and refreshments Typically meeting once a week, our often feel lonely. the client. Our volunteers often tell us they throughout the session. Community Support Clubs run from Monday get as much reward from delivering the One of the most effective ways of helping to to Friday in Sunderland central, Washington Through attending we hope to help older service as the clients do in receiving it. alleviate the feeling of loneliness and social and the Coalfields areas offering attendees people to: isolation is our Keeping in Touch Service. This year, 52 home-visiting volunteers the opportunity to meet likeminded people • lead healthier and happier lives It is a simple, straightforward way for two made almost 2,430 visits to 67 clients while having fun, staying active and sharing • tackle loneliness friends to have a catch up and a chat and is and 33 telephone volunteers made 10,040 common interests. • get active free of charge. telephone calls to almost 245 clients. We provide a total of 29 Community • stay independent for longer Our team of friendly, dedicated volunteers As the demand for this free service Support Clubs which are held in a number are in weekly contact with many older continues to increase we are actively people across the City to provide social looking to grow our team of volunteers in interaction either with a home visit or a order to support many more lonely people. 29 400 110 regular telephone call. Community Support Clubs attend every week volunteers

“Grateful for the call and what a 2,430 good job Age UK home visits Sunderland are “I feel less doing.” anxious with more activities and socialising. They 80 have helped volunteers me a lot.” 10,040 telephone calls

12 13 Lunch on Wheels The Essence Service Providing hot tasty meals in the community Sunderland’s Dementia Hub for those in the Essence mild to moderate stages of the condition. Service In response to identified need Age UK Sunderland developed a Lunch on Our feedback clearly demonstrates that the Wheels Service in March 2020 at the By 2025, throughout the UK, just over service provides a high level of information, beginning of the COVID 19 crisis to one million of us will be living with advice, activities and listening ear support ensure older people were able to access dementia and over two million by which helps people come to terms with and a hot, home cooked lunch each day. 2051. Source –Age UK accept a dementia diagnosis in an informed The service has received very positive and supportive environment. feedback from older people and their families As the only charity in the country to attain We are delighted that the service continues who otherwise would have struggled to get the University of Stirling Award for its to receive funding from the Sunderland a hot meal due to self-isolation impacting dementia friendly environment, our Essence Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to help further on their health & wellbeing. Service has continued to develop and make a positive impact for people with an early us carry out our vital work. diagnosis of dementia and their carers. As part of Essence delivery we also Our Essence Service is dedicated to ongoing commission Sunderland Carers’ Centre to consultation with those with a dementia deliver Understanding Dementia Courses diagnosis and their carers to ensure the which are of great benefit. “Thank you for service is client focused and tailored to the beautiful fresh individual need. lunches my dad gets every day. Thank you to everyone involved with making the “Coming here meals.” is better than taking any tablet”

Our Age UK Sunderland heroes Gordon, Phil and Colin ensuring that the most vulnerable older people in Sunderland receive a hot meal via our new Lunch on Wheels Service.

14 15 Social Focus A service for people aged 50+ who have a mild to moderate functional mental health condition, such as anxiety, “Essence has gave me From April 2019 until March programme as evidence shows lots of information, 2020, 1,599 people have that keeping busy, stimulating depression or stress. lots of company and accessed the Essence Service, the brain and socialising slows signposting and support looking to promote my stress levels have of which 555 have been new down the progression of 3.6 million older people in the UK independence to get people integrated back dropped.” clients. dementia and maintains general live alone, 1.9 million older people wellbeing. often feeling ignored or invisible with into their community. In addition to providing “Essence has been research finding loneliness can be as information on dementia, such This includes: Referrals into the service continue to be high my salvation. Coming harmful to our health as smoking 15 this year and the project has documented a as behavioural changes and the • coffee mornings here among friends cigarettes a day. different types of the condition, number of very positive outcomes. Over 298 who I know are there • arts and crafts sessions a range of other information Source –Age UK people received support from the project in to listen to my moans • movement and music 2019 / 2020. and advice has been delivered to Funded by Sunderland CCG, Age UK and groans and are • reminiscence sessions people with dementia and their Sunderland’s Social Focus Project is a The Social Focus Service is constantly there for my support. I carers, such as: • independent living skills service for people aged 50+ who have a progressing and finding new ways to tackle really enjoy this group. • maximising income and • carer peer support groups mild to moderate functional mental health social isolation. This includes the ‘Pityard’ We can talk and listen accessing benefits • men’s groups condition, such as anxiety, depression or social groups that connect ex shipyard/ to their problems • practical support for carers • iPad active sessions stress. colliery workers who would like to reminisce along with mine. about the past and connect with old work in their home via Lifestyle • trips out to Beamish and other The aim of the project is to tackle social They have the same mates continue to grow. (shopping, housework, North East beauty spots isolation and looks to reduce symptoms problems and best of companionship) of mental ill health. The service has a Co- The project has been supported by all we can laugh and Sessions are held both at the 6 • information on community Sir Thomas Allen Centre and at ordinator who delivers dedicated support. volunteers this year who have carried out not shed tears which and residential care community venues throughout Following referral, our Co-ordinator some fantastic work with clients resulting in in the past I’ve shed • wills and power of attorney the City, however from March undertakes ongoing assessments to identify improved wellbeing. The volunteers are also lots. This group is the • accessing social care 20 services were realigned need in terms of social and mental health invaluable in helping us to help to combat best thing that has assessments due to COVID 19 in line with issues. The service also acts as a form of loneliness and low level mental health issues. happened to me.” • client centred support plans government guidelines “I appreciate you and • Training Programmes We have over 7 active “Life is certainly your colleagues at • Support for carers when their volunteers who support the a lot more fulfilling these Age UK Sunderland loved ones dementia diagnosis service in a variety of ways. All days, I have started going will be busy at this becomes more advanced volunteers are screened and out again with my bus pass time. Thank you for Everyone is encouraged to DBS checked via the Age UK and have also been going everything you’re engage with the Essence activity Sunderland Volunteer to Stockton Road (AUKS) to do some doing to support our Co-ordinator. exercise” elderly population.” 298 people received support from the project during 1,599 555 7 2019/20 Essence people have accessed of which have volunteers Service the Essence Service in been new clients 6 2019/20 in 2019/20 project volunteers

16 17 ActivAge Active Friends New Activities, New Friends, New Beginnings Age UK Sunderland was successful in attaining funding from the Community Foundation Kellett Fund to implement Our ActivAge service continues to One of the greatest gains that any older provide activities which concentrate person can make when attending a class a project that promotes access to leisure and learning on the physical aspect of wellbeing; is the creation of a new friendship group. opportunities for older residents living in sheltered such as tai chi, yoga, line dancing and Attending an ActivAge class set in a friendly seated exercise as well as exercise and welcoming environment often provides accommodation, or, extra care schemes in the City of for the mind, through taking on the much needed respite from the effects of Sunderland and surrounding areas, Washington and the challenge of learning how to use a social isolation and loneliness. computer/tablet, a new language, or Coalfields. We ensure ActivAge offers a very flexible painting with watercolours. programme of activities and interests to suit There is no better way to keep old age All activities take place in the communal all types of interests and needs delivered by at bay than keeping your mind and area of the sheltered housing community. experienced tutors and volunteers. body healthy! The aim of the project is to increase Through the Active Friends project we have social inclusion and reduce loneliness provided residents of sheltered housing and and isolation; improve mental health and extra care schemes with an opportunity wellbeing by creating a friendly, happy and to become more mentally and physically engaging environment; improve physical Courses and activities in active. health through a variety of stimulating 2019/20 have included: activities for the body and mind. The project offers FREE leisure and learning Keep Fit as a Fiddle; Women’s Keep Fit activities to encourage older people Seated Exercise & Fall Prevention to participate, with a view to activities Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates becoming self-sustaining, with help from Line Dancing and Dance Fit volunteers. Holistic Therapies & Stress Management “I had not FREE Leisure & Learning Activities realised how Digital Connections – Keeping in Touch enjoyable IPad & Android Tablets: How to make Learn how to use a tablet, or, smart phone & stay exercise it work for you! safe on the internet can be” Computer Skills – Microsoft; Computers Digital Entertainment - Fun & Games for Beginners; Computer Drop-in Family Tree Family Tree and Local History Drawing for Leisure Calligraphy and Watercolours Painting During 2019/20 we successfully achieved: Spanish and German Seated Exercise & Fall Prevention Ukulele Keep Fit Exercise Music Making & Appreciation 1,238 12,847 Walking Knit, Stitch, Chit `n` Chat; Vintage enrolments attendances Crafts Friday Friends. Thursday Get Together and Scrabble 85 474 73 8 6 older people activity sessions leisure & learning venues Real Crime Club 12 109 970 attendances volunteers courses older people benefitting benefitting activities

18 19 Maintenance Cognitive Meaningful Connections Promotes the inclusion of older marginalised and Stimulation Therapy (MCST) underrepresented groups including LGBT+, and isolated Our Essence and ActivAge services Activities include: men, supporting groups to make meaningful connections, have achieved great success in the • discussions reducing loneliness and isolation and enabling connectivity development of MCST courses within • word games our service delivery during 2019/20. in the wider community. • quizzes Clients from our Essence service and • physical activities The focus of this project is to appropriate information and support to Veterans with mild to moderate dementia • creative and musical activities. effectively engage older people from promote positive ageing and improve benefited greatly from the courses. marginalised populations including access to services, through both age and Group members, carers and staff all stated the LGBT+ community and older men. culturally appropriate support. What’s MCST? the following benefits: Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy • Enjoyment, having fun and increasing Research has shown that marginalised Meaningful Connections facilitates the (MCST) is a weekly one to two-hour long levels of happiness. populations are much less likely to integration and inclusion of disengaged access support services. This is despite older people helping them to access their programme for people living with mild to • A sense of belonging and making new experiencing significant health inequalities communities, mainstream and bespoke moderate dementia. friendships. and challenges in later life such as support, ensuring all older people in • Increased confidence in ability and to try Group members take part in meaningful loneliness, poor mental health and Sunderland are able to love later life. other new things. and stimulating activities, proven to help wellbeing, and increased concerns about We are achieving this via our: maintain memory and mental functioning. • Improvements in communication, growing older. Due to these factors there The groups provide a fun, supportive including reading and writing. is a significant need for bespoke projects Men in BIG Sheds Project environment where people can build new • Improvements in memory and mental that facilitate and encourage better friendships. ability. engagement by offering activities that Delivered in partnership with the North East Land Sea and Air Museum (NELSAM), Men in • Having more energy. are more suited to and better relate to individual needs. Big Sheds is a social, learning and wellbeing • Increased levels of physical activity. project targeting older men in Sunderland It is vitally important that Age UK who are, or, who are at risk of social Sunderland assists people to access isolation, loneliness and ill health.

“It has given me the push I needed to engage outside the house.”

20 21 Weekly group sessions held at the NELSAM LGBT+ Project provide men with the opportunity to Information and Advice Service become volunteers and to learn how This project delivers tailored one-to- to restore and renovate the museums one support to older LGBT+ people who Helping people to claim their entitlements artefacts and meet likeminded people experience low level mental health needs, along the way. Weekly, Men’s Health related including loneliness, anxiety and depression Age UK Sunderland’s Information and The I&A Service continued throughout workshop are also delivered. and encouraging social participation Advice (I&A) Service provides a free and the year to maximise client’s income through a preventative and enabling through benefit advice and ensuring the The project’s core aims are to support older confidential service which is a much approach to loneliness. client is receiving their entitlement. These men to: needed support to people aged 50 plus The project aims to: across Sunderland. The Information & entitlements empower local older people in • reduce feelings of loneliness and social Advice team provide help with checking receipt of low levels of income to help with isolation • reduce social isolation and loneliness client benefit entitlements, offering independence and their general health and • improve health and wellbeing and have • increase social connections and advice on how to claim and assistance wellbeing. increased knowledge in self-health care community belonging to complete benefit forms. • learn new skills and develop hobbies • encourage community involvement by The benefit entitlements enable clients to empowering and supporting people to • access wider support services The I&A team ensures those claiming welfare access services and support to help reduce establish their own independent self- • feel more connected to their local benefits are receiving the full entitlement a client’s sense of isolation and loneliness, sustaining networks community they should be receiving. The I&A Service the I&A service has empowered people • access wider support services and signposts and refers clients where appropriate considerably by reducing the day to day During 2019/20 we successfully achieved: mainstream activities to other services and organisation providing concerns about living costs. supplementary information about supportive In addition, Age UK Sunderland is working The benefits gained have improved clients services and community care matters. The in partnership with the Sunderland Pride wellbeing enabling them to participate in 35 364 Group to empower the older LGBT+ I&A Service provided a mixture of telephone such things as social activities. The I&A older men engaged attendances advice, face to face meetings and home visits community to contribute to the design and Service during 2019 to 2020 has helped in the project where required. development of the Sunderland Annual over 616 people apply for £349,582.45 back Pride event ensuring it is inclusive to and dated benefit arrears and£1,962,545 in 20 17 representative of the older population. additional benefits. men accessed men became other mainstream permanent community volunteers at 52 364 4 support services/ NELSAM older people attendances volunteers “A very big activities supported thank you for your help and kindness to me. You were so “It has professional and improved my understanding but also confidence caring about me which to meet was appreciated.” people.”

616 £349,582.45 £1,962,545 people supported back dated benefit arrears in additional benefits in making claims

22 23 Joining Forces Support for our veterans

The Joining Forces Information and Older Veterans have articulated that Advice Service was developed in the specialist organisations like Age UK partnership with other Age UK’s in the Sunderland provide more support and focus North East. on working age veterans. Helping with their transition from the armed forces and The Joining Forces North East Consortium that more practical support with solving consists of four Age UK ‘brand partners’ problems. including Age UK Sunderland in partnership with SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen’s The Joining Forces Service is offering face Families Association), Royal British Legion to face, one to one support focused on (RBL) & the North East Veterans Network. mental health and wellbeing, loneliness The North East Consortium is delivering an and isolation in later life. The partnership Information and Advice Service to Veterans continues to identify Veterans on lower (ex-Services) through identified needs and welfare benefits to support them to responses to those rudimental requirements. maximise their income and raise awareness of the issues affecting Veterans. The North East Information and Advice Service are delivering to Veterans through a The Joining Forces Co-ordinator has guided conversation approach, many of the attended six events meeting over 151 veteran’s responses identify a generic offer veterans in the last year and also had the which is available locally to all older people. privilege of meeting with Simon Weston A generic offer through the North East CBE, British Army Veteran who was very Consortium can reduce the fear of stigma supportive of the Joining Forces initiative. and enhance the feeling of belonging to a The Joining Forces initiative has offered community. information, advice and support to over 323 Veterans, Carers and family of veterans throughout the year.

During 2019/20: 323 veterans, carers and family of veterans supported “We are extremely helpful for the assistance we have received from Age UK Sunderland, it has 151 changed our lives. veterans have been met by Thank you”. our Joining Forces Co-ordinator over six events £336,627 benefit gains

24 25 LIFEStyle Service Offering support in and out of the home

Age UK Sunderland’s Lifestyle Service We have a team of experienced LIFEstyle is a charged for service that continues Workers, who provide excellent help to provide vital support to people and support to older people across the across Sunderland. The service is open City enabling them to maintain their to those seeking support in different independence in their own homes. areas of their lives. The feedback we receive about LIFEstyle is The LIFEstyle service currently offers: extremely positive, with clients expressing • Housework their thanks and appreciation for the support provided. • Shopping for clients • Companionship We currently employ 20 LIFEstyle Workers who have provided 6,278 hours of support during 2019/20 to 160 individuals. 20 6,278 160 LIFEStyle workers hours of support individuals supported

“The Lifestyle “I really look forward Worker is very to seeing my accommodating Lifestyle Worker. She and did is lovely, friendly and everything very understanding. asked.” Nothing is a problem to her”.

26 27 Redwood Day Service Metcalfe Dementia Support Service Support to reduce social isolation and maintain independence Supporting the needs of people with moderate dementia

Situated in a modern, airy environment Our Day Service continues to provide both The Metcalfe Dementia Support Service at the Bradbury Centre, our Redwood respite for carers and a supported and safe offers a dedicated day service for older Day Service continues to provide a day out for older people who require some people living with moderate dementia who high standard of activities and events support to maintain independence. live within the boundaries of Sunderland. throughout the year at competitive Our Day Service facility incorporates modern Age UK Sunderland’s new Dementia Support rates. dementia friendly fabrics and colours into a Centre was declared officially open by the Right These include themed parties to celebrate great space which allows people to relax and Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor David Snowdon Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day to name a feel comfortable. and his Mayoress Councillor Dianne Snowdon few. We provide a tailored one to one experience on Monday 24th February 2020 at Lee Terrace, Every day is different and we offer a full for each individual, during 2019/20 we Houghton Le Spring DH5 0AQ. timetable Monday to Friday with a range of have supported on average 72 people and The centre has a beautiful colourful dementia activities such as arts, crafts, cookery, bingo, provided 3,449 sessions. friendly design and provides tailored support from card games, arm chair exercises, sing-along, trained and dedicated staff via activities to help reminiscing and much more. stimulate those living with a moderate diagnosis of dementia, providing much needed respite support for carers. The centre comes complete with a sensory garden for additional stimulation and enjoyment. The Metcalfe Dementia Support Service is a chargeable service that is available Monday to Friday 9 am – 3 pm (please note COVID 19 restrictions may interrupt service delivery).

Diamond Wedding Anniversary Celebrations On Saturday 31st August 2019, one of our Redwood Day Centre service users celebrated her 60th wedding anniversary. Mary Smith who has attended the day centre for seven years married Celebrating the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Megan Markle Brian Smith 60 years ago so we celebrated with flowers and an afternoon tea with cupcakes. 72 3,449 people supported per year sessions

28 29 Activities and Events Age UK Sunderland supports older people across the whole of the City and has outreach hubs at Washington and Coalfields. Ably assisted by a number of volunteers, working with a range of partner agencies, we are able to support many local older people from the heart of local communities.

Coalfields Washington Our Lunch Club Co-ordinator ensures All enquiries regarding Washington delivery of community activities and events should be directed to Age UK Sunderland for older people, as well as supporting on 0191 514 1131. and organising a dedicated team of local Our Lunch Club Co-ordinator is responsible volunteers. for organising local activities for older During 2019 – 2020, seven community people such as community support clubs support clubs in the coalfields served over and supporting local volunteers. This has 60 elderly local residents each week. been another busy year for the Washington Many of the clubs have enjoyed a wide area, running community support clubs in variety of activities and events throughout four areas of Washington, over 60 older the year such as seated exercise, IPad people attend per week supported by tutorials and special celebrations ensuring more than 10 volunteers. an engaging and interesting programme. The Christmas Stella Event and Summer Working with our Essence Service, we host Tea 2019 had over 100 people attending a weekly outreach session in a community and included six members of Santander venue within the coalfields. Washington who assisted on the day. A dedicated Washington Essence outreach This is an opportunity for local people with Group grows steadily with more than 25 a dementia diagnosis and their carers members attending weekly. Games such to meet and talk to people in similar as Fun Bingo, Botcha, New Age Curling, and Pictured above from left to right, trustee/treasurer Susan Ritchie, vice chair Roy McLachlan, circumstances, enjoy a range of fun puzzle games are played, and competitively trustee Dianne Hutchinson, trustee Carol Harries, The Chair of Age UK Sunderland Graeme activities such as new age curling, bocce, pursued by all. Miller, Director of Age UK Sunderland Tracy Collins, The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor quizzes, reminiscence sessions with old David Snowdon, the Mayoress Councillor Dianne Snowdon and trustee/council representative photos from the local area and much more. We work in close partnership with ASDA Councillor Kelly Chequer in Washington to promote services and support local people.

30 31 Campaigning Age UK Sunderland have continued to support Age UK’s national campaigns in 2019/20 and these have included: Loneliness Older People’s Council Local Support & Campaigning Knitted Poppies Loneliness in later life is not inevitable Age UK Sunderland set up the Older Sunderland’s local MPs and councillors have Age UK Sunderland’s Knit, Stitch, Chit ‘n’ but it does make later life miserable and People’s Council two years ago as we continued to support the campaigning Chat group have produced over 150 knitted is really bad for our health too. Yet more recognise the importance of ensuring that work of Age UK Sunderland. Local media poppies which are used to decorate the than a million older people say they go for older people get the opportunity to express has also been supportive including railings at the Bradbury Centre on Stockton over a month without speaking to a friend, their views and opinions on issues that coverage from BBC Radio Newcastle, BBC Road every year in remembrance and neighbour or family member. affect their lives such as health, safety, TV, Sun FM, and other honour of all those who lost their lives security, housing, social care and support local publications and media outlets. during the First World War. That’s why Age UK ran the No One Should and transport. Age UK Sunderland has campaigned and Have No One campaign nationally and commented on behalf of older people in the played a key role in the Jo Cox Commission Building on the success of our 50+ Forums city on various topics including: on Loneliness. project, the Council enables a platform to • Social isolation ensure that older people are still involved Age UK joined forces with the Jo Cox and have a voice regarding areas that affect • Excess winter deaths Commission on Loneliness which is a them. • Fuel poverty cross-party initiative designed to increase • Winter warmth and advice the public’s awareness of loneliness and • The cost of care encourage the public to act to tackle it. • Dementia Jo Cox was passionate about the issue of loneliness and started the Commission We have also supported several campaigns before her murder in June 2016. In her using these opportunities to raise memory the Commission will now be taken awareness of our other appropriate and forward by Rachel Reeves MP (Labour) and complimentary services: Seema Kennedy MP (Conservative).

The Commission aimed not to simply highlight the problem but more importantly act as a call to action. Under the slogan ‘start a conversation’, the Commission aimed to mobilise the public to help their neighbours, family and friends - educating people on how they can become the remedy – whether it be talking to a neighbour, visiting an old friend, or just To celebrate the International Day of Older making time for the people you meet. Persons on Tuesday 1st October 2019. Sunderland City Council Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Councillor Doctor Geoffrey Walker, joined members of Age UK Sunderland’s Older People’s Council at one of their regular meetings to sign an open public letter calling for more respect and equality for older people.

32 33 Promotions and Marketing Age UK Sunderland have been providing help and support to the older people of Sunderland for 69 years and we are the Health and Wellbeing Guide There is also information aimed at older largest local independent charity, working and campaigning on We have also produced Age UK people or their carers who may need to issues affecting all older people within the boundaries of the Sunderland’s first Health and Wellbeing access social care support, either now or in City of Sunderland. Guide. the future. This guide contains health and wellbeing The contents of this guide also reflect With regard to our services, we • Press Releases which are sent to our local information and guidance for the over 50s. current guidelines that have been sourced continue to position ourselves in public media to promote any events. from a variety of government agencies, There is information on the services and spaces with high volume footfall, • Information stalls in shopping centres. including the Care Quality Commission activities provided by Age UK Sunderland with regular promotional stands. This (CQC) and NHS Choices. • Via our social media sites (Facebook, and how to access them. approach maximises our potential Twitter & Instagram) to promote our to introduce our services to new services and any news we would like to people as well as creating networking share. opportunities with other organisations learning about the services that they Your local provide better equipping ourselves to inform our client base. Health & During this year we have used the following Wellbeing methods to promote our services within the Sunderland area: Guide • Visiting existing groups within the community to give talks at Community Centres, Churches, Patient Groups, Sheltered Housing, Community Events. • Held Drop Ins at various locations for example, Libraries, Doctor Surgeries, Hospitals (during visiting hours), Health Centres.

Supporting older in Sunderland to people more of make later life

34 35 Donations and Fundraising Our thanks go to everyone who has been involved in fundraising for us. It’s with the generous support of donors Our thanks also to the staff of Age UK Dianne Snowdon also attended to meet the and fundraisers that we are able to have a positive and lasting Sunderland who helped on the door and volunteers and older people. impact on the lives of vulnerable older people in Sunderland. with teas and coffees at the event. The concert raised over £2,000 with sponsorship And a big thanks to . . . To fund our work, we seek to achieve Christmas Spectacular of the event again generously donated from All the individual and group donors who a constant flow of income through a John G Hogg; Funeral Director, for which we Our 9th Christmas Spectacular Concert was have contributed to Age UK Sunderland balance of commissioned services and are extremely grateful. ASDA also provided held in December at the Salvation Army in over the year, including Nissan & Sir John fundraising. us with donations of mince pies. Roker. The Reg Vardy & Chester le Street Priestman Charity Trust for their continued We would like to give a special thank you to generous support and donations. Salvation Army Band, with bandmaster Boxing Day all of our commissioners for continuing to Nick Hall, Professor of Vocal Studies at fund our vital work to improve the lives of the Valerie Reid, We received a number of donations for our older people in Sunderland. the University of Sunderland’s singing 2019 Boxing Day Lunch including gifts for Left to right, Mayoress Elect, Councillor group After Dusk, Clarinet Player Joseph the people attending which was extremely Dianne Snowdon, Mayor Elect, Councillor Just Travel Cover Gonzalez with Southmoor Music well received by the participants on the David Snowdon and Director of Age UK Through a range of activities, the Teacher Holly Nicholl and the choir of day. The Deputy Mayor Councillor David Sunderland Tracy Collins at our 2019 amazing team at Just Travel Cover have East Herrington Primary academy gave Snowdon and Deputy Mayoress Councillor Christmas Spectacular. donated £969.10 over the year to Age UK wonderful performances. Sunderland.

The Ballinger Charitable Trust We received a donation of £2,500 from the Ballinger Charitable Trust to be used for the furnishing of the sensory garden at our new dementia support centre.

Big Knit Each winter Innocent Smoothies work with Age UK to help raise funds for winter warmth campaigns and once again our marvellous volunteers knitted away and produced tiny hats to fit onto the smoothie bottles. The hats were on sale in the winter months, highlighting the winter warmth campaign. A big thank you to all our knitters as we could not have achieved the target without you.

Will We also received a generous donation of £62,846.88 via a will which will be used to support our services going forward throughout the city.

36 37 Partnerships As the leading charity for older people in the City, Age UK Sunderland supports a wide variety of partnerships and community work. A number of the key partnerships we engaged with in this year are detailed below:

Sunderland City Council and quality of life for people living with dementia. In these communities, people We continue to work closely with will be aware of and understand more elected members and officers to support about dementia, people with dementia and older people across the City and has their carers will be encourage to seek help I’ve seen many people representation on: over the sixty years I have had to and support and people with dementia deal with my epilepsy and I am • Sunderland Safeguarding Adult Board will feel included in their community. pleased to say that the Information (SSAB) Quality Assurance Sub Committee In addition to this, people will be more and Advice Worker is one of the best independent and have more choice and people that I have come across who Sunderland Clinical Commissioning has helped me in every single way, control over their lives. they took away my anxiety, made Group me feel relaxed and helped me Age UK Sunderland works in partnership Supporting Community considerably. I am so pleased Age UK Sunderland have with Sunderland CCG and has Development good people like them for representation on a number of groups Age UK Sunderland is active in supporting the good of the public. in relation to the All Together Better community development for older people programme of work, to ensure that within the City. Community development older people’s lives are improved and is a way of strengthening civil society, by that services and support are in place prioritising the actions of communities, and to maximise independence. Choice and their perspectives, in the development of control, whatever their individual needs are. social, economic and environmental policy. It seeks to empower local communities, Moving Towards a Dementia around specific themes or policy initiatives. Friendly Sunderland It strengthens the capacity of people as The Dementia Friendly Communities active citizens through their community Programme focuses on improving inclusion groups, organisations and networks, and

38 39 the capacity of institutions and agencies to Sunderland Pride Group work in dialogue with citizens, to shape and determine change in their communities. Joining forces with Sunderland Pride Group, Age UK Sunderland have received funding We aim to ensure that the voice of older to support and reduce loneliness, increase people is heard and listened to and has community connectivity and improve an influence of decision making in local the wellbeing of older LGBT+ people in communities. Sunderland. Local Business Partnerships As part of the project we will ensure that the annual pride event is more inclusive and Age UK Sunderland is also working closely representative of the older LGBT+ needs. with businesses in the City including: In addition to improving accessibility for • Sunderland BID all older people promoting community • Business in the Community cohesion and engagement in the event across the city. • John Hogg Funeral Directors – Christmas Spectacular Sponsor Men in Big Sheds - North East Land • – Continued support by Sea and Air Museum (NELSAM) allowing us to use the centre to contact the public Age UK Sunderland have teamed up with NELSAM with the ambition to better engage • Feeding Families – Hampers donated at older men, who are or at risk of social Christmas isolation, loneliness and ill health from the With thanks to all of the above and Sunderland City region. many others for their continued support and partnership working with Age UK The joint Men in BIG Sheds initiative Sunderland, helping us achieve our goal between Age UK Sunderland and the of making our City a better place for older NELSAM, is thanks to funding obtained from people to live. the players of the postcode lottery. The scheme is a social, learning & wellbeing project that will provide men with the opportunity to learn to restore and renovate the museums artefacts including a Merchant Ship Model & RAF WW2 Fire truck. The project will see older men connect with their local community, learn new skills and interact with peers, alongside contributing to the restoration of Museum artefacts benefiting the wider Sunderland community.

40 41 Long Serving Volunteer Michael Highton receives his Volunteer Service Award in recognition of a remarkable 25 years’ service and in appreciation of the contribution Michael has made towards the services provided by Age UK Sunderland for the older people of our region, the Volunteering award was presented by the Director of Age UK Sunderland Tracy Collins. We have nearly 300 dedicated volunteers who provide approximately 1,200 hours of their time per week helping to run our service across the City including the Washington and Coalfields areas.

The recruitment of volunteers remains The annual Volunteer Celebration and Long strong with new volunteers coming forward Service Awards in June is our opportunity from a range of backgrounds, experiences to thank everyone for their hard work. The and varying ages, this ensures our volunteer 2019 celebration event was held at The base is diverse and volunteers offer an Grand Hotel Sunderland and saw many impressive range of skills, as well as great long service certificates awarded, including reserves of energy and enthusiasm. The to Lillian Clark, for a wonderful 30 years of volunteer recruitment procedure is robust volunteering service. and includes the completion of an enhanced Our Volunteer of the Year Award 2019 went Disclosure & Barring Certificate (DBS). to Sandra Leeson for her dedicated work Our volunteering is located all over the with the Community Support Clubs. Sunderland area and we now have quarterly If you would like to find out more about informal Get-Together sessions where volunteering for Age UK Sunderland, volunteers can drop in for an update and to contact our Volunteer Co-ordinator on 0191 meet others. The Volunteer Views newsletter 514 1131. continues to be published every quarter to keep our volunteers up to date with news Our Volunteer of the Year 2019: Left to right, stories, profiles, information and the regular Director of Age UK Sunderland Tracy Collins, Mayor training opportunities which are available, Elect, Councillor David Snowdon, Volunteer of the such as dementia awareness sessions and Year 2019 Sandra Leeson and the Mayoress Elect, safeguarding. Councillor Dianne Snowdon.

42 43 News and Events Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Boxing Day Lunch While the long-term impact of the adhere to the latest government guidelines, coronavirus pandemic remains however we believe the social impact poses Once again, Age UK Sunderland held a an unknown, the signs are that it the same risk. Some older people can rely Boxing Day lunch in 2019 for the older will have at least a temporary and on great support from their families but not people of the City who experience high probably very significant effect on everyone is so lucky so we are working very levels of social isolation and loneliness at daily life in the UK. And it’s clear that hard to ensure that there is support available Christmas time. The event was a great older people, especially those with to help get them through. success with over 20 people attending to underlying health conditions, will be Age UK Sunderland will continue to support enjoy a full Christmas lunch and dance the hardest hit. to the music of Elvis. Each person left the many older people on a daily basis and we event with a Christmas gift. Age UK Sunderland is dedicated in providing are determined to be there offering support ongoing support to older people across the to older people throughout the period to The event is made possible each year due to city during this challenging time. come, ensuring services are delivered safely donations of so many people through cash, and effectively. gifts, and valuable free time. Tracy Collins Director of Age UK Sunderland commented “Coronavirus is a clinical Age UK Sunderland are continuing to Left to right; The Mayoress Councillor Dianne Snowdon, Finance Manager of Age UK Sunderland Donna Hepple challenge and we are urging people to provide dedicated support to older people and The Right Worshipful the Mayor, Councillor David Snowdon. during this uncertain time.

Christmas Carol Service The Age UK Sunderland Christmas Carol Service at the Sunderland Minster is always a wonderful start to the festive season. It is always well supported and attended despite December being such a busy month for everyone.

Yet again the Minster was packed with everyone enjoying the event. A special thank you to Age UK Sunderland’s Musical Appreciation Group, Revd. Jacquie Tyson for leading the service and the East Herrington Primary Academy Choir for their very emotional and uplifting performance.

Left to right, The Deputy Mayoress of the City of Sunderland, Councillor Dorothy Trueman, The Deputy of Mayor of the City of Sunderland, Councillor Harry Trueman and the Director of Age UK Sunderland, Tracy Collins.

44 45 Acknowledgements “Thank you for all your help. We would like to thank all of the funders of our services. Their continued support I won’t forget enables us to fulfil our mission statement for the older people in the city. you.”

Love later life

Department of Health & Social Care England

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