Rasen Rotarians hear of charity’s work with older people

Rtn Strawson introduced Andrew Storer, CEO of Age UK Lindsey, an independent local charity based in Horncastle, who has a long history of working in this and other caring organisations.

Age UK Lindsey had, before the pandemic hit, a turnover of around £1.5m and employed 130 people directly, with more than 300 volunteers.

By far the majority of its income was generated in its 10 charity shops.

Andrew outlined the charity’s links to the national organisation, Age UK.

Each group, such as Age UK Lindsey, operates as a separate entity, with only very tenuous links to the national body.

In fact, the national Age UK organisation contributes less than 1% of the annual operating costs of Age UK Lindsey and there is no support given by local or national government – the group operates entirely on the income it can generate through its own endeavours.

The Covid-19 pandemic has been a major shock to the system and, understandably, no planning had been made for the type of lockdown which we have all had to endure.

Andrew applauded the speed at which local councils passed on support, but temporarily closing the group’s charity shops effectively cut off its main source of finance (£250k per annum) and as a result some significant decisions had to be made if the organisation was going to be able to survive.

Two significant services the group provided – Independence at Home (IAH) and Community Transport (CT) - have both now been closed completely with the loss of some 70 full or part- time jobs together with many volunteer roles.

With no prospect of a return to a fully operational business the charity could not bear the cost of maintaining these services – its income having reduced by some £250k per year because of the pandemic.

Throughout the pandemic Age UK Lindsey has continued to provide its flagship Information and Advice Service, as well as its befriending service.

Next year is the 30th anniversary of Age UK Lindsey and hopefully they will be able to continue to support the 100,000-plus vulnerable people locally they have been helping in the past.

Andrew then finished his presentation by answering questions:

Rtn Taylor wondered if there was any capacity in Age UK Lindsey for more referrals to be made from local organisations that had identified vulnerable people.

Andrew thought that, yes, capacity did exist; people in need of assistance are advised to contact them on 01507 524242.

The Age UK Lindsey website is also a good source of information: www.ageuk.org.uk/lindsey/.

There is also a presence on Google, Facebook and Twitter.

Rtn Bell asked about donations and Andrew reminded everyone no local authority support is given to Age UK Lindsey and he is not sure the reopened charity shops will ever get back to the levels before the pandemic.

Rtn Myland enquired about the local Age UK shop in Market Rasen and Andrew confirmed they were now accepting donations – but with the 72 hour quarantine requirement.

Andrew has a quest for more warehouse space, as their existing storage is full. He advised any potential donations - especially larger items - should be checked first by phoning ahead (01507 524242) to ensure they could be accepted.