As a soon to be graduating class on the BSc Applied Psychology programme at University Centre Shrewsbury (UCS), studying the effects of loneliness and isolation in the ageing population we wanted to take the opportunity to give back to our local community and support Age UK Telford & Wrekin. The charity are fabulous and put so much work and effort into supporting our local older community. 

We wanted to do something a bit different! In line with the 'Elf on a Shelf' theme, we will be posting pictures of our 'UCS Bear on a Shelf' over the next few weeks to have a bit of fun! The 'competition' aspect of this fundraiser is the chance to win our lovely 'UCS Graduation Bear' by naming him/her. We ask for a £1 donation to enter the draw to win the bear! Post your suggestions for the Bear's name on our UCS Applied Psychology Facebook page @UCSappliedpsychology (or below this just giving post) - quoting 'name UCS Bear'.

Make it fun for the family! Get all involved. And once we announce the winner of the Bear (with the best name), then please do donate the Bear to someone that could use it most! Someone perhaps affected by loneliness and isolation during these difficult times? 

We look forward to seeing the suggested names for our bear! And good luck in the competition!

For more information about Age UK's Platinum Challenge, please see information below:

On 11th November 2020, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin will mark 70 years of making a difference to the lives of older people across the county. To celebrate we are asking fundraisers to complete a Platinum Challenge and raise funds to support older people in three key areas: - Reducing loneliness and isolation - Supporting people living with dementia - Providing information and advice The numbers of older people needing support have most likely risen from these figures due to the pandemic. During this difficult time, we were able to adjust services and meet the needs of local older people but as we move through the pandemic we will need your help to continue the support given across Telford & Shropshire.