New helpline gives free info and advice for the over-50s

AGE Cymru Dyfed has launched a new helpline to help over-50s in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion access free information and advice, home cleaning and maintenance services, befriending, digital support and more.

The new contact number for the public – 03333 447 874 – comes as the charity, which was established from the merging of Age Cymru Sir Gar and Age Cymru Ceredigion in April 2020, supported over 2,400 older people throughout the three counties of Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion during its first year.

During the peak of the pandemic, older people were particularly hard-hit by isolation and dwindling access to food, medication and other vital services. Between April 2020 and March 2021, Age Cymru Dyfed carried out 10,238 phone calls, Zoom calls and essential home visits with clients who relied on the organisation during multiple lockdowns.

The merger allowed Age Cymru Dyfed to utilise the pooling of expertise and resources to reach even more people who were struggling throughout the three counties. Age Cymru Dyfed has also more than tripled its number of staff since the merger, opening a new office in Haverfordwest as its services expand to meet the growing demands of Wales’ ageing population.

The new helpline will make it even easier for older people in the three counties to access crucial support, as well as valuable information and advice, and will connect callers to all offices and services throughout Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Simon Wright, chief executive officer at Age Cymru Dyfed, said: “I am so proud of how much we’ve achieved in the last 18 months, and would like to thank every member of staff, every selfless volunteer, and every member of the public who has supported us since the merger. The launch of our new telephone number will make it much easier for older people, their families and their carers to contact our team, who will be able to provide tailored support and advice right from the start.”

The charity is also encouraging more people in their 50s to get in touch for free help and advice.

Mr Wright added: “Last year, we supported over 300 people between the ages of 50 and 59.

“It’s important that people understand that we’re here to support everyone over the age of 50 and not just those in the later stages of their life.”

For information on Age Cymru Dyfed, visit the website at https:// www.ageuk.org.uk/cymru/dyfed/ or email reception@agecymru dyfed.org.uk