Winter has always been a challenging time for vulnerable older people and for the NHS. Government updates state that this Winter could be particularly difficult due to the impacts of COVID-19 on top of the usual increase in emergency demand and seasonal respiratory diseases such as flu. The Older Peoples Commissioner for Wales also stated in their recent report that older people have felt the impact of isolation and of staying indoors, experiencing a loss of confidence and being fearful about going back out again. It goes on to say that 11% of older people in Wales an estimated 91,000 people feel consistently lonely.

With this in mind, local older peoples charity, Age Connects Cardiff and the Vale, are anticipating a sharp rise in demand for their services this Winter but with limited resources to ensure each and every older person who needs support can access it. This appeal is urging people to please show support for those in need this Winter.