AGE UK & CHELSEA MAGAZINE SPRING 2018

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Age UK Kensington & Chelsea, 1 Thorpe Close, , W10 5XL 020 8969 9105 www.aukc.org.uk Registered charity number: 1082658 on whichborough youlivein. There isacharge depending with shoppingbags. off thevehicleandassist hand tohelppassengerson/ passenger assistantison- on andoffpublictransport. A to jugglebagswhilegetting around anewstoreortrying hassle offindingtheirway their weeklyshopwithoutthe attending. Memberscanget supermarket theywillbe they willtravelandwhich Shoppers knowwhatday different daysoftheweek. to thesamesupermarket on set sothatmembersaretaken weekday.every Atimetableis Run inanaccessibleminibus Shopper Services Pack andmoreinformation. 1 pm–4foraMembership 8964 1114weekdaysbetween Volunteers Carspleasecall020 If youareinterestedinusingthe is pairedwithyourbooking. guaranteed untilavolunteer so journeyscannotbe andisrunby volunteers service isnotataxi in. Thisservice on whichboroughyoulive depending rates andvary are chargedatsubsidised business. Trips their everyday and familyorjustgoabout activities orclasses, visitfriends need togo, beittoattend passengers whereverthey who usetheirvehiclestotake Driven byateamofvolunteers Volunteer Cars >Mobility Scooters >Shopper Services >Volunteer Cars all threeservices: Members canaccess people stayindependent. tohelp a rangeofservices Individuals’, Westway CToffers for Through its‘Services & ChelseaandWestminster. people livinginKensington happiness andwell-beingof positive impactonthehealth, Westway CTworkstoprovidea to usepublictransport? Do youfinditdifficult

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Cover Image © Age UK K&C CONTENTS SPRING 2018 Beth & Jon go the Digital companionship. . 12 extra mile...... 04 Can technology help us to Support Age UK K&C staff in their stay more connected? Foreword from the marathon fundraising efforts Activities & Events . . . 14 Listen Up! ...... 05 Find out about all the exciting Chief Executive Making sure our members’ things we’ve got coming up strive to do as much as voices were heard at our listening they can, often going event with local Councillors Shared reading groups with above and beyond. The Reader ...... 16 Transport Mobility Forum..05 If you love stories, poems and This month do look out Jon reports on the Forum’s great literature, The Reader’s for our publicity about Jon latest activities groups could be for you and Beth who will really be going the extra mile GDPR is coming! . . . .06 My Care, My Way . . . .17 when they run a marathon Find out about the new General Find out more about the around the borough to integrated care service in Data Protection Regulations raise funds for our front line Kensington & Chelsea services. Their route around The loneliness issue. . .07 Kensington and Chelsea will We take a look at what’s being Unlocking the V&A. . . 18 I write as winter, rather see them hopefully whizz done locally and nationally to Exploring the treasures of the belatedly this year, finally combat loneliness and isolation. Victoria & Albert museum past a location near you on turns to spring, although 28th April, so come out and this edition of Age UK Why are we so lonely?. .08 One step closer to preventing wave to them if you can. A K&C’s magazine will cover list of approximate timings Sue Baker takes a look at some Alzheimer’s...... 18 the period through to of the causes of loneliness The Imperial Memory Unit and details of how you can share their latest research on the summer. For most of support Beth, Jon and the us time flies by, but for The benefits of preventing Alzheimer’s campaign are on page 4. many this is simply not volunteering...... 09 Volunteering is a two way street Open Age...... 20 the case as we age. We will also pass the which benefits everyone involved Keep active and healthy anniversary of Grenfell with Open Age’s This edition has a particular before our next magazine Facing up to loneliness. .10 programme of activities. focus on isolation and and we are mindful of the Donald Zec offers his tips on loneliness and, whilst we difficulties for those who how to stay young at heart Puzzle page...... 21 understand more and have lost loved ones and Exercise your brain with our more about the impact those who have been Annie’s View...... 11 Sudoku and wordsearch puzzles this can have on health relocated. The anniversary Annie considers the important and wellbeing, it seems in June will be hard. We role communities play in Scam alert ...... 22 harder and harder to are increasingly hearing defeating loneliness Don’t fall victim to this prevent it creeping up as of older people finding latest telephone scam a significant aspect of life themselves on their own in Is one the loneliest for many as we get older. a new area, and we want number?...... 11 to remind everyone that Will Porter considers a different From research undertaken take on spending time by yourself. we can provide support by Age UK it seems that to help people find their its effects on our sense feet in a new place. If you of worth and confidence are affected by Grenfell, Meet the Team… Advertising Sales can create a downward or know someone who Laurence Rowe spiral, making it harder Editor Tel: 01536 526 678 could do with a little Brooke Kerr Email: [email protected] for older people to take extra support, please get Tel: 020 8969 9105 positive action themselves in touch by calling our Email: [email protected] Publisher or seek support. And we Lance Publishing Ltd office on 020 8969 9105. Age UK Kensington 1st Floor Tailby House are painfully aware of the & Chelsea Bath Road, Kettering, NN16 8NL pressure on resources to 1 Thorpe Close, London, W10 5XL Tel: 01536 512624 help. But our staff always Tel: 020 8969 9105 Fax: 01536 515481 Sue Baker Fax: 020 8206 6589 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.lancepublishing.co.uk This magazine is produced on behalf of Age UK Kensington & Chelsea by Lance Publishing Ltd. All rights are reserved by the charity and no part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the charity. Age UK Kensington & Designer Printer Chelsea will accept no responsibility for, or necessarily agree with, any claims made Amanda Robinson Lance Print Ltd or views expressed in this publication, nor does the mention of any product, service Email: [email protected] Tel: (01733) 390564 or advertisement imply a recommendation by Age UK Kensington & Chelsea. Age UK Kensington & Chelsea, Registered Charity No: 1086258, Limited Company No: 03926026 Cover Image © Age UK K&C

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 3 AgeMatters News&Events

Beth & Jon go the Extra Mile to combat loneliness and isolation in Kensington & Chelsea.

n 28th April Age UK so we will actually end K&C staff members up doing 27.2 miles. O Beth Colquhoun and Jon Fryer will be running a "You can see an outline of crucial volunteer-led help marathon to raise money the route, and some rough to the older people of K&C for our front-line services. timings of when we will for decades, first as Sixty arrive at each point, below. Plus, then Age Concern The pair say: "We've K&C and now Age UK K&C. designed a marathon "We might not have time to Whether you are a member, route that takes us stop for tea and biscuits, future member, volunteer, around the borough, but we'd love to see as or someone who refers making good use of the many of you as possible regularly to our services, you green spaces – including on the day, so please can show your appreciation Brompton and come out and support by donating to Beth and – us. You can also show Jon's Extra Mile Campaign. and taking us past many your support by making a of our members' houses donation – either online Donations will be and flats. We'll start here: www.mydonate. essential in helping our at and bt.com/fundraisers/aukc- staff and volunteers finish in . extramile, or by cheque deliver these services for made out to Age UK a long time to come. "Some bright spark Kensington & Chelsea." has also decided that we should live up to As many of you know, the campaign billing we have been providing and do the extra mile, wonderful, caring and

Sloane Square 8am 8.30am and 11.40am Mary Smith Court 9am and 12pm Holland Park () 9.20am Miranda House 9.30am Evelyn Fox Court 9.45am Sainsbury’s 10am James Hill House 10.40am Acklam Road (Age UK K&C Office) 10.50am 11am Holland Park (Design Museum) 12.20pm

4 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk News&Events News&Events Remembering Cai Martinez (1923-2018) t is with great sadness Age Concern Kensington that we report that & Chelsea (now Age UK I Age UK K&C member, Kensington & Chelsea). volunteer and former trustee Cai Martinez Cai was part of Sixty Plus passed away in as trustee, member and Cai was also very much February this year. volunteer at the office involved with the annual since 1994. Many of you Valentine’s Party, which we Cai and his brother Jose will know that he set up have organised in partnership came to England in 1937 our card recycling project, with the Venture Community from Barakaldo in Spain, making beautiful birthday Centre and Open Age for the during the Spanish Civil and Christmas cards last 15 years. Every year we War. He quickly integrated and working with other still hang Cai’s wonderful into British life and in volunteers to send them out. hand-painted decorations later years got involved Thousands of people have on the walls of the Venture with the local community benefited from this project Centre for the party. in Ladbroke Grove. He over the years, and their He is truly going to be missed. became an essential gratitude is demonstrated part of the Management by the number of thank Committee at Sixty Plus, you cards and donations Tasio Cabello which later merged with we receive in return. Community Engagement Manager

Listen Up! inform local priorities and ensure in particular Ladbroke s part of our first Ordinary the voices of older people in Grove and Latimer Road General Meeting of the our community are heard. • Difficulty in getting face- A year, we organised a to-face GP appointments listening event which brought Across each of the five • The closure of together local Councillors and groups there were some police station, coupled with older residents to talk about key themes which came up concerns around increased what’s good and what’s not several times, including: knife and moped crime so good about being an older • The lack of affordable, • Almost every group stressed person in Kensington & Chelsea. social and sheltered how essential the Freedom housing in the borough Pass is to their independence. Councillors Charles Williams, • Reduced trust in the Council/ Pat Healy, Robert Freeman, TMO following the fire at We have sent a fuller report on Catherine Faulks, Judith , and concerns the issues raised at the event Blakeman and Emma Dent Coad about the lack of suitable to all Councillors, as well as to sat down with our members homes available for victims key officers in the NHS and to hear their views on a range • Pollution and poor air quality local authority. We hope that of topics including transport, • Cyclists riding on it will help to inform priorities health, social care, crime and the pavement going forward, and we will housing. The aim of the event • The lack of step-free be following up with elected was to improve understanding, access in tube stations, representatives later in the year.

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 5 AgeMatters News&Events General Data Protection Age UK K&C at the Town Hall Regulation (GDPR) and – representing our members your information By Jon Fryer (This can be printed for those ew rules about data protection without access to the internet). n March this year, I will be coming into effect Other topics discussed at attended the quarterly N on 25th May 2018. These the recent meeting were: Transport Mobility Forum affect any organisation that wants I or needs to keep any information at Kensington Town Hall. • Cycling on the pavement As mentioned in a previous about people using their services. • Hospital access by bus article, this forum is chaired • RBKC bus shelters – additional by the Council’s Transport An important implication for Age seating being put in place UK Kensington & Chelsea is that we Policy Manager and is a great after requests at the Forum will need to contact people using way to get transport issues • Pedestrian access when our services to let them know: faced by our members raised there are building works at a borough level. It is not • What information we keep • Training for bus drivers, uncommon for problems • Why we keep it specifically on assisting to be solved when they • How long we keep it for passengers with reduced find their way to the correct • How people can request mobility or disabilities to department in the Council. a copy of any personal ride the buses safely information we hold (called A recent example of this is a a Subject Access Request) request from a member of Age We are currently updating our UK K&C for a map of all the records and reviewing our practices drop kerbs in the borough. This to ensure our compliance with the member had recently started forthcoming legislation. Over the using a mobility scooter and coming weeks we will be checking had realised how helpful it the personal details we hold about would be to know where people who are in touch with us, If you would like to she could get on and off the checking that these details are discuss these issues, kerbs near her flat in Chelsea. correct, and, where necessary, This request was put to the or have some writing to confirm your consent Mobility Forum, and within other transport related for us to retain the information for a couple of weeks they had questions, then please the purposes we hold them. produced this handy map: let me know by calling www.rbkc.gov.uk/parking- 020 8969 9105 If you receive this magazine from transport-and-streets/ or emailing Age UK K&C, but do not use our your-streets/roads-and- [email protected] other services, then please note pavements/dropped-kerbs that we keep your contact details solely for the purpose of sending the magazine to you. Please let us know if you no longer wish us to do this and would like us to safely destroy these details.

Further information will be made available via our website in an updated privacy policy detailing how we process and store personal data.

6 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Features The Loneliness Issue The words ‘loneliness’ and ‘isolation’ seem to be on everybody’s tongues at the moment, but how serious is this problem? And, more importantly, what can we do about it? How serious is the problem? support of older members in our What can I do if I feel lonely? • Research carried out by community. That’s why, in addition If you have been feeling lonely, Age UK in 2016 found that to the raft of services we provide, a first step is to identify how you 1.9 million over 65s in the we have launched our Extra feel, even if just to yourself; this UK ‘often feel ignored or Mile Campaign encouraging can help you to think about what invisible’ and 3.7 million everyone to do their bit to end and you could do to help yourself, or agree the television is their prevent isolation and loneliness. how to ask for help from others. main form of company. • According to the Campaign Going the Extra Mile: 1. If you are able to get out to End Loneliness, loneliness is what can I do? and about, you could: as bad for you as smoking 15 • Find out about activities and cigarettes a day, worse for you 1. Donate – Help us continue events happening near you – than obesity and increases to provide companionship and for example those run by Age your risk of dementia, heart support to hundreds of older UK K&C (page 14), Open Age disease and depression. people in Kensington & Chelsea (page 20) and the University by sponsoring Beth and Jon’s of the Third Age (www.u3a. What’s being done nationally? Extra Mile Marathon. Find out org.uk / 020 8466 6139). The Campaign to End Loneliness how you can do this on page 4. • Share your skills and time is a network of organisations and with others by volunteering individuals working together to 2. Volunteer – Make a real – turn to page 9 for more ensure that loneliness is treated difference to the life of a information about volunteering as a public health priority. lonely person by signing up to with Age UK K&C. They do this by campaigning, volunteer. We have a wide range carrying out research and of opportunities to suit your 2. If you find it hard to providing commissioners skills and availability. Please see get out, you could: and policy makers with the page 9 for more information. • Get in touch with Age UK K&C latest evidence. Visit www. about our befriending service campaigntoendloneliness. 3. Join the conversation – • Sign up to the national Age org to find out more. Whether it’s talking to your elderly UK’s telephone befriending neighbours, visiting a relative, service, Call in Time, for a The Jo Cox Commission on starting a conversation on the bus, weekly friendship call from Loneliness is calling on the asking your family and friends to a volunteer. Call 0800 434 Government to produce a UK sponsor Beth and Jon, sharing this 6105 for more information. wide strategy for loneliness magazine or engaging with us on • Join online communities and to fund initiatives which social media, there are small steps such as Gransnet (www. tackle the problem. In January we can all take to end and prevent gransnet.com) to chat to this year the government loneliness in our community. like-minded people. appointed its first Minister for Loneliness, Tracey Crouch MP. 3. Speak to a health worker Connect with us! if you feel very lonely. Long term loneliness could What’s being done locally? Find us on Twitter: Here at Age UK Kensington & contribute to later depression @AgeUKK&C and Facebook: and other health problems. Your Chelsea we feel it’s important www.facebook.com / to encourage local people and GP should be able to direct you businesses to do what we can in AgeUKKandC to local services that can help.

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 7 AgeMatters Features Sue Baker considers some of the causes of loneliness and what can be done to help My 87 year old mum feels lonely.

he lives in a street something that may well surrounded by, albeit have not been noticed at S increasingly fewer, long other times when life was standing friends and my sister sometimes all too full on. and brother are only minutes away. A neighbour pops by When age brings limited most days and she goes to mobility and ears hear less dinner with my sister most well in groups, the absence nights. Dial-a-Ride is there becomes too much the for shopping and she orders presence, and feelings that a taxi every fortnight to get accompany it can be hard her hair done. The lady that to live with. For those more helps with the cleaning always mobile it might be just the Here in bustling Kensington stops for a cuppa and a chat. monotonous strain of only and Chelsea, whilst some Mum is a member of the making decisions about might well be more able and local ladies’ fellowship and yourself – what to eat today, have more opportunity than is still just about able to go where to go – the lack of others to take matters into the 200 hundred yards (yes, anyone else to have to take their own hands, it’s not so yards for mum) under her own into consideration. What easy and the psychological steam - weather permitting. at other times in our lives impact of loneliness can might have felt like blessed affect us all. As we have In terms of social isolation, freedom turns into feeling come to realise, it can lead my mum sees more people imprisoned, unanchored, to reduced health and in a week than many her and directionless and physical wellbeing and age. But she still says without purpose. create a vicious circle. she feels very lonely. The way life is today - with This is why Age UK There is more to combating scattered families and Kensington & Chelsea will loneliness than being around disparate communities - continue to see tackling others and most of us have does not help, and even isolation and loneliness as experienced this at some our weather has its own the golden thread running point or other in our lives. impact. I spent a lot of time through our organisation. It’s something about a sense in a small town in Greece And, talking of running, it’s of place in the world as we where the clement weather why two of our staff are experience it, a sense of had most people strolling running their own ‘Extra Mile connection, being part of around, catching up with marathon’ on 28th April. something rather than feeling friends each evening. Easy Supporting people to combat like an outsider looking in access to shops and cafés isolation and loneliness is on life. It’s a feeling of life and the local church meant not easy to do on a scale being around you, rather even the very elderly were that makes a difference to all than an aching silence. And firmly rooted and a vital across the borough. And it’s feeling you are part of it – part of community life. certainly not easy to do with

8 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Features reduced funding for our on behalf of older people. can we can work towards services – having seen an And we hope as many of you preventing the devastating actual reduction, as well as will be there to wave to them impact of loneliness taking that caused by inflationary as they pass - details of their hold in the first place. pressures over the years. route can be found on page 4. We can only make a Many of our members have difference if we have Doing what we can involves experienced loneliness the resources to do so. everyone. Practical support and and, although they may access to social events and not have been able to Staff feeling this passionate other ways of making the most solve it altogether, they about what they do, of later life are fundamental. have found ways of taking and taking matters into But as my mum’s experience the edge off and finding their own hands to make shows, we need to go even hope and encouragement a difference, is to be further and understand what, through giving this to treasured and celebrated. on top of getting these things others. It would be great We will all be coming out right, makes a more lasting to build up a dossier of in force into the streets difference to how people feel. ideas and stories as to to support Beth and We want to know what helps what has made a difference Jon in running through people feel able to make a to you – so please start Kensington and Chelsea difference to their own lives sending these in and we to raise funds for our work and those of others, and how will see what we can do! Volunteering is a two way street Age UK K&C’s Volunteer Coordinator, Teresa Pope, part of your community, make explains how volunteering benefits everyone involved. new friends and learn new skills, as well as learn more about ge UK K&C makes a real who offer their time to befriend yourself. Above all, significantly difference to the lives an older person. Loneliness helping others feels good! Aof many people in the isn’t confined to the elderly; borough through a range of it’s something that many may If this has made you think volunteer services, in particular experience at some time in about becoming a volunteer befriending. Regular visits, a their lives. Volunteering is and you would like more friendly face and an occasion to seen as an effective way to information on all of our look forward to are just some of combat this. Helping others is volunteering opportunities, the benefits of befriending, and therapy for helping yourself. give me a call on for many it’s much more. When 020 8969 9105. We will people become isolated their Other benefits may include the also be holding a drop-in mental and physical health and opportunity to become a dynamic morning on Wednesday wellbeing are compromised, 2nd May, where you can accessing information becomes pop in and have a chat with problematic and a lack of social us about volunteering. We interaction leads to a loss of will be in the large meeting confidence and independence. room at 1 Thorpe Close (London, W10 5XL) between But befriending is very much a two 10am and 12pm and we way street, and there are equally would love to see you there! many advantages for volunteers

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 9 Features

I simply refuse to go into In short, my an organ recital, because dear fellow Facing up to actually, nobody really wants elderlies, to hear it. But just in case we can loneliness anyone thinks ‘it’s alright for gripe or we him’ - I have lost the sight by Donald Zec can grin. of one eye, have limited What has In the last edition of Age vision in the other, wear all this to Matters we introduced you two hearing aids and still do with to Age UK K&C member say ‘Wha..?’ when shouted facing at. I have blood pressure up to Donald Zec, whose fantastic problems and at night crawl art exhibition and auction loneliness? early to bed nestling into It is simply because I believe raised over £23,000 to help the arms of insomnia. us develop and expand our that if we can, in reasonably good humour, accept what intergenerational work. We When I go to the bathroom I age must inevitably do to cannot wait for the mirror to asked Donald for his thoughts our bodies, then the same on the topic of loneliness steam over so that I am not confronted with someone, attitude is required to face and isolation, and here’s loneliness and the isolation what he had to say… something, I inwardly feel I am not. In my MIND I can that comes with it. oneliness and isolation still pot the black, throw affects each of us a triple twenty, play a This need not be as L differently. If we’re very forward defensive stroke, depressing as it sounds. old - I’m in my hundredth kick a winning penalty, Acceptance of the realities year - it’s likely we will be leap a fence, snog, sing, does not mean you have impaired in ways that make and cheer. I could pick a to take them lying down; coping with being on one’s decent Burgundy off the literally or figuratively. You own very tricky indeed. If you top shelf of a supermarket, will have within you stores have difficulty in reading, and if I was indignant of memories, experiences, watching TV, hearing the enough, write a stinging and anecdotes which are radio, going for walks, or ‘letter to the Editor’ and well worth recalling in the sometimes even being taken generally engage with life. quieter moments - but for a walk, then how do you sharing them with a younger face up to it? Of course if you Ah...then the steam fades person pays rich dividends have a chummy family around from the mirror. I do not and Age UK K&C’s scheme then that’s a blessing. And exactly recoil at what I see. for inter-generational if you’re not that fortunate But I do wonder who on contact is an invaluable then access to young people earth is that staring-eyed, resource in this area. - with their optimism, their pallid, largely bald creature curiosity, their genuine dribbling toothpaste under Sorry if I’ve been a bit long- interest in what things were the strip-light? Where are the winded on this subject. like when you were young, biceps I thought I still had? It’s just that I feel strongly can be an absolute delight. There was a time when the that the old in years should blood-pressure sleeve fitted still, with a little help, strive But what if we haven’t my upper arm as snugly access to any of the above? as a football captain’s arm to be young in heart. And Hang in there, old sports! band. Now when my night if you can make contact Attitude of mind is carer slides the thing on with a generous-hearted, everything! Now when I am it’s like poking a chopstick open-minded teenager, asked how I feel these days, through a hula hoop. so much the better.

10 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Features

Age UK K&C member Annie Redmile considers what Annie's we as individuals can do to strengthen our communities. take care of their older relatives. supporting local initiatives And, there are those who do like the one at St. Philips, or View not have partners or families. joining a national cause like The Campaign to End St Philip’s Church on the Earl’s Loneliness, we can all make ccording to the Court Road in Kensington has a difference. Since its launch Campaign to End had increasing concerns about the Campaign has grown in A Loneliness, set up in people living alone in its parish. strength and has supporters 2011, there are 1.2 million To help them identify where from the world of business, the chronically lonely older people are living alone and voluntary sector and more than people in the UK who lack what help they might need, they 3,000 individual supporters. the friendship and support are about to hire a part-time we all need. Half a million outreach worker to specialise in As individuals, we can make a older people go at least five this area. Rev. Pippa Thornton, renewed effort to be a ‘good or six days a week without now the vicar in charge at the neighbour’ seeing or speaking to anyone. church, said she supports the and work There are over 2.2 million project wholeheartedly. Churches to support people aged 75 and over like St Philip’s are always and boost living alone in Great Britain. looking to find ways of tackling community problems in their community. life. A strong Perhaps we shouldn’t be too Community surprised at those statistics. And, I believe we can all do is so good After all, we are living longer something to help. Whether for our health and families do not always it’s checking on a neighbour, and wellbeing.

Is one the loneliest number? to yourself. While this issue so many!) can be good for of our newsletter is focused the soul. It’s a time to reflect, Will Porter considers a different on helping our readers to take stock, to indulge your take on spending time by yourself. becoming less isolated, we own needs. No man is an shouldn’t forget that we island but sometimes it’s nice never understood why also have lots of members to sit in the shade, stare at Wordsworth’s wandering who always seem to be on the palm trees in the breeze I cloud was so lonely; the the go. For those people and enjoy watching the grey skies of Britain are it’s easy to forget the value waves beside them dance. generally filled with clouds. of taking time to yourself. That said, it is possible to be Each of our members engages lonely in a crowd - as many From the busy market stalls with our services in a different a Londoner will testify. of Portobello to crowded way and it’s important we as , the an organisation understand There remains a flip side to energy of our borough is so and respect that some people this of course; perhaps our relentless you should never enjoy their own company fluffy friend chose to wander underestimate the virtue more than others. Next to a quieter part of the of occasional solitude. time you see that cloud stratosphere for some peace that floats on high over and quiet. In the hubbub of A walk around the park, time vales and hills, just consider the world’s greatest city it with a good book, a wander that it might not be lonely can be important to take time around a museum (we have but in blissful solitude.

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 11 Activities&Events Digital companionship: can technology help us stay more connected? By Jack Cloves-Hayden ince the inception of the isolation – something which is often the majority of questions with very internet, the opportunity achievable via the use of the internet. little hassle. Questions like ‘When is S for modern technology to the next 295 bus?’, ‘How long should benefit our lives in many ways has With social media on the rise, it has I cook my rice for?’ and ‘Who won continually grown. Everything has never been easier to connect with the World Cup in 1952?’ can be become accessible at the touch of people across the globe. Between answered in the click of a button. a few digital buttons: whether you Facebook, WhatsApp, Skype and The quest for information has never want to buy groceries, watch the Instagram there is a constant been easier and, to be honest, it’ll latest movies or have a quick chat stream of communication that make you very good at the pub quiz. with family on the other side of can be shared with anyone and the world, it’s all possible and very everyone you would like to see it. Throughout the year, Age easy with the use of technology. UK K&C run classes designed The use of search engines such as to let you socialise and Without doubt, technology has Google has allowed any information learn in equal measure: made the world smaller and to be delivered instantly. It will answer • Every Monday morning everything more accessible. The at Evelyn Fox Court in younger generation has grown from up with this technology and 10am until 1pm we have therefore has grasped these skills one-to-one tuition, to naturally; however it is time that the help get your computer older people of Kensington and skills up and running. Chelsea were shown how much • Every Tuesday of the they could gain from interacting school term we have an with the digital age, and flex intergenerational project their technological muscles! between 3pm and 4pm at , where

As a local community charity, we Shutterstock.com / BigTunaOnline you can develop your skills are committed to fighting social under the guidance of your own assigned student. • When you’re feeling a bit more confident, we have our Digital Clinics a few times a month, where we offer a surgery full of tech specialists, to battle any issues you have encountered. It would be great to see you at one of our classes in the near future! So if you would like more information, call Ximena or Rhoda on 020 8969 9105.

12 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Activities&Events Welcome to Rhoda Hello there! We have so much planned for the months ahead y name is Rhoda and I cannot wait to Cookey and I am share these with you. M writing to introduce myself as the new Events & I am so excited to meet you Activities Intern at Age UK all over the next few months Kensington & Chelsea. I am at our fantastic events. I am looking forward to carrying always happy to meet new on the amazing work from faces and have a good chat, my predecessor, Jack. so do pop by and say hello!

Valentine’s Celebrations 2018 by Ximena Chiesa, Events and Activities Coordinator

t Age UK K&C we think work together. We have isolated and changed their one of the best ways received amazing testimonies way of seeing the future. A to tackle loneliness which show how people who and isolation is to show attended the event were Thank you to everyone who love for one another. For inspired by the message came to these events and this reason, the Valentine’s of love, companionship helped make them so special events are an opportunity and partnership that we and powerful. I would like to come together as a big gave and they went on to say an especially big thank family and demonstrate become volunteers or take you to every single one of the that our members are part in group activities. volunteers for all they did to not on their own; we are Their lives were transformed make it so great. We couldn’t going through life together and now they feel part of have done it without them. We and support each other the neighbourhood, less love and appreciate them all. in good and bad times.

The Valentine’s Concert & Afternoon Tea at St Cuthbert’s Church was a special event and, with the help of our partners Opera Holland Park and wonderful volunteers from the Department for Work & Pensions, Ninja Tunes and University College London, we showed our love for our community and demonstrated the impact we can have when we all

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 13 AgeMatters Activities&Events Activities and Events Update from Ximena Our Activities & Events project Highlights Olympia, Portobello Orchestra actively combats loneliness and We had a full house for our Concert performances, Classical Concert isolation by connecting people with & Afternoon Tea at St Cuthbert’s with Afternoon Tea at HTB Onslow their communities and supporting Church with Opera Holland Park in Square, Rotary Club Annual them to join group activities. In February and Bassett House School Concert, Open Dress Rehearsal doing this, you can get to know Choir in March. Both performances and Tea at Posk Theatre, Victoria new people and build friendships were stunning and I would like & Albert Museum exhibitions, which will hopefully continue for to take this opportunity to say performances years to come. Through our huge THANK YOU to the performers, and Britain’s Got Talent. range of events, courses and clubs as well as to the army of volunteers we provide plenty of opportunities who helped during both events. to meet like-minded people, take trips and learn new skills. Other highlights included our Christmas Carols with Glendower If you haven’t yet joined one Primary School and Opera Holland of these projects, have just Park at St Cuthbert’s Church, Christmas signed up, or even if you have Party at Mary Smith Court, Valentine’s been coming for a while, we Party at the Venture Community would love to see you at one Centre, International Women’s Day at of our events. We are looking Kensington Palace, Spring Party at St forward to getting to know Cuthbert’s Centre and the St Patrick’s you over a delicious meal or Day Celebration at Mary Smith Court. cup of tea, where you can I also want to take this opportunity make some new friends and to say a big thank you to all our get you know some of us. You partners who gave us the opportunity can contact me or Rhoda on to visit incredible places including: 020 8969 9105 or by emailing Ideal Home Show at Christmas at [email protected].

14 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk AgeMatters Activities&Events What's Ahead?

e’ve had a great winter We are going to send the new activities and I’m happy to say and events programme out in the last W the fun continues into week of April. Please keep an eye out the spring. We have a whole host for more important announcements! of exciting things coming up over If you would like to find out more the next few months, including about this project, or would like to trips to Isabella Plantation, Mayfield receive the programme of events, Lavender Farm, Kensington please call Ximena or Rhoda on 020 8969 Palace, Royal Albert Hall, Opera 9105 or email [email protected]. Holland Park performances and amazing summer outings. Creativity and Wellbeing Week is an initiative from London Arts in Health Forum and it will take place from 4th – 10th June 2018. As part of this we will be running some special activities: Highlights will be our Royal Wedding Celebration, World What When Where Cup and Summer Events! They Ormrod Court Reading Club will provide great opportunities Tuesday 5th June, 11am 71 – 117 Kensington Park Taster Session to invite your friends and have Road, London, W11 1NP a fantastic time together. Mary Smith Court Card making session Wednesday 6th June, 11am 17 – 21 Trebovir Rd, SW5 9NF Our next Concert & Afternoon Join a Choir – Sing with Tea events at St Cuthbert’s Church Wednesday 6th June, 2pm Mary Smith Court will be on Thursday 17th May, Opera Holland Park 17 – 21 Trebovir Rd, SW5 9NF Thursday 21st June, Thursday Evelyn Fox Court 19th July and Thursday 16th Knitting Club Thursday 7th June, 10.30am 2 Kingsbridge August from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. Road, W10 6QF These events are free, although Kensington Library, Digital Clinic Friday 8th June, 2pm donations are always welcome. Philmore Walk, W8 7RX Activities at New Horizons In collaboration with The Camden Society, the New Horizons café will be holding Cook & Taste sessions:

Description Cost Dates Time

Pie Making £3 per Friday 20th July 2-4pm Participants will make their own person pies and get to take them home.

Halloween Biscuit Making £3 per 2-4pm Participants will make and decorate person Friday 26th October their own biscuits to take home

Please note there are a maximum of 15 places for each of the sessions. Booking is essential – please call New Horizons on 020 7590 8970.

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 15 AgeMatters Activities&Events Shared Reading groups with The Reader o you love stories, poems K&C activities, offering tasters We look forward to welcoming you and great literature? and poetry readings. Read on to a group soon. To find other Shared D Would you like to find to find a group near you. Reading groups in your area contact: out what Shared Reading is? Erin at erincarlstrom@ Here’s what our group members thereader.org.uk or mobile Did you know that there are many have to say about Shared Reading: 07483 972 020, or Shared Reading groups going • “I’ve felt really happy since the Liz at [email protected] on in your local neighbourhood session with you - I bought or mobile 07807 106 815. running every week? myself some flowers the next day…and went for a Our website has lots more Meet The Reader, an organisation long walk while listening to information too: that is passionate about the music— all in one day. Our www.thereader.org.uk power of reading together. happy thoughts trigger happy chemicals in our brain.” Aysha We at The Reader are the pioneers • “An anchor during the week” of Shared Reading. The volunteer • “It always makes me feel more Reader Leaders who run our weekly fulfilled than the other days” groups bring people together to read great literature aloud. Our evaluation data for Shared Reading groups Groups are open to all, readers and in 2017 showed that: non-readers alike. Come along • 95% look forward to the and listen to stories and poems group as an important read aloud. It’s an opportunity event in the week! to read and talk together in a • 84% think the reading session friendly and relaxing environment. makes them feel better! Free refreshments provided! Here are some groups to try: Our Shared Reading groups have Venue Day and Time Address been running locally for many years, bringing Shared Reading to the residents of Kensington Brompton Library Tuesdays, 10.30am -12.30pm 210 Old Brompton Rd, SW5 0BS & Chelsea. We work in libraries, community centres, churches and Chelsea Old Town Hall, other organisations spreading Chelsea Library Tuesdays, 2.00pm-3.30pm King’s Rd, SW3 5EZ the joy of Shared Reading. St Charles Health & We are also very pleased to be Community Living Well Wednesdays, 10.30am-12pm Wellbeing Centre, strengthening our ties with Age Exmoor Street UK Kensington & Chelsea running a joint group at Miranda House North Kensington Library Saturdays, 10.30am-12pm 108 Ladbroke and getting involved with Age UK Grove, W11 1PZ

16 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Health Are you aged 65 or over? Your local NHS has Kensington & Chelsea and Henry Leak, the launched an integrated other voluntary organisations. Development Manager at care service to better Violet Melchett explains Patients have already “The patient is at the heart meet the physical, been positive about the of My Care, My Way as emotional and social results, with one saying it focuses on what the needs of patients “I feel more relaxed and patient needs in terms of aged 65 and over. able to express myself”. health and social care. It puts the patient in “It’s good to have all your partnership with their GP he service, called My illnesses and ailments and with other health and Care, My Way, was considered at the same social care professionals, T introduced in response time. It’s tiring to see so together they can to feedback from people people at different places”, actively plan care specific aged 65 and over who said said another patient to a patient’s needs”. they wanted their health after a visit to St Charles and social care to be more Integrated Care Centre. One essential part of the consistent and coordinated. My Care, My Way service “I have been the patient’s is self-care. This offers an My Care, My Way gives GP for the past 15 years, approach to everyone to patients more time with but I found out more about keeping well and looking their GP and access to them in the session at the after themselves with ideas a host of professional St Charles Integrated Care and supportive information staff who will collaborate Centre today than I have in on various activities. Self- with anyone aged the 15 years of looking after care goals are things that 65 and over living in them - this is really positive you decide that you want Kensington & Chelsea, for patients”, said one GP. to do, in order to keep as well as the Queen’s yourself as well and as Park and Paddington NHS West London Clinical active as you can. Goals areas of Westminster. This Commissioning Group has can range from deciding means patients can stay introduced two Integrated to eat more vegetables independent for longer Care Centres to provide in your diet, to trying and avoid emergency patients with services out a class or workshop hospital admissions. including basic foot care, with some new people. diabetes clinics and social The pioneering service is care services conveniently Want to know more? a collaboration of local all under one roof, reducing For more details organisations working the number of appointments about My Care, My together as partners in different places. The St Way please ask your including local GPs, local Charles Integrated Care Centre GP, or alternatively hospitals, community is in Ladbroke Grove and the visit our webpage: services, social care, Violet Melchett Integrated charities such as Age UK Care Centre is in Chelsea. www.mycaremyway.co.uk

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 17 AgeMatters Health

• Handled and learned about ceramics Unlocking the V&A in different sizes and shapes. By Adi Zeira, Dementia Support Worker • Admired watches, necklaces and rings, some of which were The Unlocking the V&A into a world of art and found in deep sea project is a collaboration objects. After enriching our and others in between between Age UK K&C’s knowledge, the participants bricks. We admired enjoy a cuppa and a chat. the fine artistry and dementia services and craftsmanship each the Victoria & Albert The participants of the project piece required. Museum. The sessions are have told us they feel less held once a week and are isolated, and that coming Our journey has yet to end attended by people with to the V&A lifts their spirits. and we are still exploring They enjoy the opportunities and enjoying the magic memory problems, as well to learn about a variety of that is inside the walls of as staff and volunteers subjects, experience the awe- the museum. Thank you from both organisations. inspiring landmark museum to the V&A and the staff and meet new people. and volunteers for this he project brings lovely project and sharing people together On our journey so far we have: their time and knowledge T and gives them an with us. We are enjoying opportunity to get to know • Been to the Medieval & this wonderful journey. other local residents, share Renaissance galleries knowledge and explore and heard the love stories told by 13th century the treasures of the V&A. stained glass windows. Each person brings their • Looked at paintings and own unique perspective drawings of England and London and reminisced about the days when we were young and free. • Seen and heard stories told by the 300 hundred year old Iranian carpets. One step closer to preventing Alzheimer’s By Nyla Haque, Clinical Research Coordinator at Imperial Memory Unit, Dementia is an umbrella term which describes nlike current clinical many conditions that cause studies that are progressive loss of memory U trialling medicines on and other thinking functions people who already display that affect our everyday symptoms of Alzheimer's, activities. Alzheimer's a new approach will see disease is the most a drug being trialled on common form of dementia, healthy adults who have a accounting for about 70% higher risk of developing of cases. It currently affects dementia in later life. 850,000 people in the UK.

18 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Health

There are many general For the last 10 or 15 years disease, are invited to take lifestyle changes which there has been a huge part in the clinical trial of can reduce the risk of push in drug development a new medication over a developing dementia to try and develop new period of five years to see through general health medications that can if it prevents the onset of factors. These form part of clear the abnormal brain Alzheimer's disease. an important public health proteins and slow down or initiative to encourage prevent worsening of the Dr Richard Perry, the Principal people to lead a healthy condition. Unfortunately, it Investigator at the Imperial lifestyle in terms of diet, would seem that although Memory Unit says "This is exercise, mental and social these medications seem a whole shift in the way engagement, moderating to be effective in reducing in which we approach the alcohol intake, stopping the brain proteins, it is treatment of conditions like smoking, and ensuring often too late and by the Alzheimer's disease. Instead that blood pressure and time symptoms develop, of trying to treat it after the blood sugar levels are the disease itself has symptoms have started, we well controlled. It is likely really taken hold. are now trying to prevent that 20 to 30% of the risk the onset of the condition of developing dementia A new approach that is by identifying people who can be affected by these being used is to identify are still healthy and without lifestyle measures. people whose genetic profile symptoms, but are at an suggests an increased increased risk of going on to Whereas it used to be risk. These are not genes develop Alzheimer's disease". thought that dementia that can predict whether or was an inevitable part of not somebody will or will If you would like to normal aging, we now not develop Alzheimer's know that it is a progressive disease, but they can learn more about new brain disease where there determine whether there is research taking place is abnormal build-up of an increased risk or not. We to target Alzheimer’s proteins called amyloid and all have APOE genes and the disease, please contact tau in the brain that lead pattern of results on an APOE to loss of nerve cells and gene testing can identify Nyla on 020 3311 5083. loss of thinking or cognitive those people who are at a function. Amyloid protein particular increased risk of If you or someone may build up 10 or 15 years developing the disease. you know have a before symptoms develop and abnormal tau protein Clinical trials for these diagnosis of dementia probably 5 to 10 years. It is new medications that are or are worried about becoming clear that if we aimed to reduce or clear memory loss, Age want to affect this process, amyloid protein from the then it is important to target brain are now taking place UK K&C can offer treatment in the earlier in the UK. The Imperial support in a range of stage of the disease, and Memory Unit based at ways, including one- that means even before Charing Cross Hospital in to-one support and symptoms develop. West London have recently started such an initiative group activities. For However at the moment whereby people aged 65 to more information, there are no drug 75, who have no memory contact the Age UK treatments available that symptoms, but whose gene K&C Dementia Team can slow down or halt the testing suggests they are disease process once it at risk of increased risk on 020 3181 0002. takes hold. of developing Alzheimer's

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 19 AgeMatters We’re Open Age

We know life doesn’t have IT courses, socials, trips, to stop when you get older. lunches, and much more. That’s why we work with you and others over 50 to Join us by becoming create chances to work, an Open Age member learn, take part, and stay - it’s completely free. healthy in body and mind. Call us on 020 8962 4141 or go to www.openage.org.uk We provide around 400 activities every week, including creative and performing arts, employment support, physical activities,

Get back into a Healthy Lungs healthy, active life Exercise Class Would you like to Whatever’s holding you take part in leisure back, we’re here to give Open Age offers structured Timetable: activities whilst making you support on getting exercise classes for people Westway Sports Centre, 1 new friends, but are started with our exercise who have a diagnosed lung Crowthorne Road, W10 6RP not sure how to? groups, arts, language condition and difficulties Tuesdays 10:30am - 11:30am and computer courses, breathing. They are suitable Would you like to go to social groups, lunches, for beginners, with chair Earls Court Health & a choice of low cost/free trips and much more. based exercises available. Wellbeing Centre, 2b activities near where you Hogarth Road, SW5 0PT live, but don’t feel ready? Whatever the difficulty, For more information Fridays 10:45am - 11:45am big or small, call Catrin and to book a place, Open Age’s LINK UP service or Donna on please contact Hansa on Second Half Centre, St is especially for you, if you 020 8962 5584 hbhodia@openage. Charles Hospital, are finding it difficult to or email cevans@ org.uk or call Open Age Exmoor St, W10 6DZ get to one of our activities. openage.org.uk. on 020 8962 4141 Fridays 2:00pm - 3:00pm

20 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Puzzle Page WORDSEARCH QUIZ 1. Yellowstone National Park is primarily in which U.S. state?

2. Where in the British Isles can Lady Isabella be found?

3. Praxis was a 1978 novel by which novelist?

4. Shakespeare’s Timon of Athens was either a tragedy, a history or a comedy?

5. Going to the Match is an acclaimed work by which Lancastrian artist?

6. Sheridan Smith portrayed which celebrated entertainer in a 2014 TV biopic series?

7. In which year was the Battle of Poitiers?

Yoga4Health Yoga4Health is a new service 1. Discuss it with your for adults over 18 who: GP and fill out a referral form (available from • Suffer from stress your GP practice) or anxiety • Need to lose weight, 2. Refer yourself by calling keep your heart healthy, Freephone 0800 246 5863 or lower the risk of Type 2 Diabetes For more information • Need help to feel well, on the service, visit: healthy and supported www.yogahealthcarealliance.com. If this sounds like you, you could be eligible for a 10- week yoga course, at a venue close to your home.

There are two ways to join the programme:

www.aukc.org.uk SPRING 2018 | 21 AgeMatters Information&Advice

providers, such as BT. following proper procedure. Scam Alert They claim to provide a The victim is not sent At Age UK K&C we work ‘Telephone Preference written confirmation of the closely with a range Service’ - an enhanced direct debit instruction, of other organisations call-barring service, which is supposed to be such as the Police and which reduces nuisance sent within three days. Action Fraud to increase telesales calls. awareness of scams and On occasions when victims help our members protect The fraudsters ask victims attempted to call back, the themselves. Below are to confirm/provide their telephone number provided details of a relatively new bank account details, by the fraudster was either scam which has been informing them that there unavailable or the victim’s brought to our attention. is a one-off charge for the direct debit cancellation service. Victims instead see request was refused. False Telephone monthly debits deducted Preference Service scam: from their accounts, which During 2017, there were raudsters are cold- they have not authorised. 493 Action Fraud Reports calling victims, The fraudsters often relating to this fraud. F falsely stating that target elderly victims. they are calling from one of the well-known In all instances, direct telephone service debits are set up without Protect yourself:

• The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) does exist. It is the UK’s official ‘do not call’ register for opting out of live telesales calls. BUT the genuine TPS is FREE to sign-up to and they will never charge for registration. You can register for this service at www.tpsonline.org.uk. If you don’t have access to the internet, Age UK K&C can help you set this up – just give us a call. • You will always receive postal confirmation of genuine direct debits. If you notice unauthorised payments leaving your account, you should contact your bank immediately. • Always be wary of providing personal information, or confirming any personal information the caller already claims to hold. Always be certain that you know who you talking to. If in doubt hang up immediately.

If you have been affected by this, or any other type of fraud, report it to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Puzzle Page Answers

Wordsearch Quiz 4. A tragedy Hidden Answer: 1. Wyoming 5. Laurence Lowry Appenzeller Sennenhunde 2. Isle of Man 6. Cilla Black 3. Fay Weldon 7. 1356

22 | SPRING 2018 www.aukc.org.uk Credit unions used to be regarded as a last resort for people In terms of loans, the union typically deals with sums in the region borrowing small sums to get them through to the end of the month, of £2,000 to £7,500 to fund anything from buying a new kitchen, or but actually today’s unions are really like community banks – a safe a walk-in shower, or to visiting family members overseas. The credit place for savings and loans for everyone. “We’re like a bank, but pride union is a co-operative organisation where all money is invested locally, ourselves on being friendly and accessible, where you will be dealing keeping money circulating within the local economy. Your Credit Union with someone who knows you by name and has the time to sit with includes among its members; MP for Chelsea & , Greg Hands; you and talk things through” Kensington MP, Kemi Badenoch, Westminster North MP Karen Buck and Hammersmith MP Andy Slaughter. Savings accounts are covered The Kensington-based union has more than 1500 members in under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme protected up to a the Royal Borough and offers ISAs and savings accounts with a total of £85,000. competitive annual return of 2% – topping the interest offered by banks and building societies. In recent years the union has seen an increase in the number of members aged 50-plus taking out loans or depositing money into savings accounts and ISAs. “The fact that the UK Government has demonstrated such strong support for credit unions has helped raise awareness and convinced people we offer a viable and reliable alternative to the traditional banking sector,”

346 Kensington High Street London W14 8NS

DO YOU NEED TO MAKE A WILL?

If you die without a will the “Rules of Intestacy” will apply and any money or property or possessions you have may not go to the people you would like. A will can sometimes reduce the amount of tax payable on your estate. Trying to make your own will can lead to mistakes and could mean your will is invalid. Don’t take any chances. Have your will prepared by a professionally trained local solicitor. We can also help with Lasting Powers of Attorney, Living Wills, Inheritance Tax Planning, Nursing Home Fees and more. We can visit you at home if required.

Supporters of the Cancer Research Wills Scheme David Tagg & Co Solicitors 119 Harwood Road, London, SW6 4QL www.davidtagg.co.uk Telephone: 020 7736 0999

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