Situation bleak says charity boss
THE head of a charity that cares for elderly people spoke out about how cuts are affecting pensioners and the vulnerable.
Anthony Donovan is executive director of Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland.
He said: “The situation is bleak and is not likely to get any better for the foreseeable future.
“Increasingly people are turning to Age UK and other voluntary organisations for help and assistance.
The charity said that funding cuts are the decimating the care sector with services cut over the last two or three years in the Hinckley area.
Vulnerable older and disabled people who would have previously received support are now having to rely more and more on the help provided by family and friends.
Mr Donovan said: “Thankfully and due to the success of its charity shop based at 56 Castle Street, Hinckley, Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland is able to respond in most requests for help.
“Across the locality the charity provides a diverse range of support including information and advice, home help and respite care, befriending services and day care.
“The longevity of these projects depends upon local people donating on a regular basis clothing, books and homewares to the charity shop.
“All money raised through the sale of goods is ring fenced and used for the benefit of local people.”
Donations can be dropped off at the shop or alternatively can be collected.
For more information or to arrange a collection, call Hinckley 234466.