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The newspaper of Age Concern Kingston upon Thames

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Issue 13 l Summer 2012

INSIDE:

Mind your Mind page 5

In Touch page 7

Sporting inspiration Eileen Gray page 4

The best is yet to be?

Dominated by the London Olympic Games, 2012 is set to be a year of celebration. With the Jubilee and the Cultural Olympiad this summer there is a focus not just on sporting achievement but on bringing communities together and celebrating British art, culture and heritage. Against this backdrop we ask, is creativity the sole preserve of the young? Growing old is often depicted as a time of loss, depression, illness and isolation, rather than one of creative growth and influence. Challenging this stereotype are artists, writers and performers who have experienced a flourishing of creativity in later life. A prime example is David Hockney (75) whose recent sell-out exhibition, A Bigger Picture, wowed thousands at the Royal Academy. Embracing the latest technology, many works in the 150 piece collection had been initially created on the artists iPad. Indeed, there are a whole host of people over the age of 70 making creative waves throughout the UK and beyond. So why do we consider these individuals exceptional and hold on to the negative attributes of ageing? Can the face of ageing change? I hope I die before I get old is one of the most famous lines in rock music, penned by The Whos Pete Townshend (67). Avoiding ageing seems ingrained in our culture, but if the word old had connotations of a time of creative success and opportunity, perhaps rock stars would yell, I hope I live til I get old. We live in a culture that is infatuated with youth and staying young. There seems to be little room to spotlight the achievements of older people in society. If we stay within the limitations imposed on us through stereotypes and labels then we fall victim to being less than the best we can be; under-playing our talents does not serve ourselves or the world. Intergenerational influence In reality many of the up and coming singers, writers, artists and actors of today have been influenced and inspired by people who work creatively in later life. The Maccabees, a successful young UK band, have talked about listening to singer/ songwriter Leonard Cohen (78), who released the studio album Old Ideas in January this year and is currently touring. Recently, Grammy awardNever too old to rock and roll Pete Townshend
Greg Allan/Rex Features

Creative in later life

Sheila Hancock (79) actress and writer. Won a Laurence Olivier Award for Cabaret at the age of 73. V S Naipaul (80) writer. Published The Masque of Africa: Glimpses of African Belief in 2010. Alison Steadman (66) actress. Star of Gavin and Stacey. Recently performed at Kingstons Rose Theatre in Here by local writer Michael Frayn (78). David Hockney (75) painter, draughtsman, printmaker. A Bigger Picture was the Royal Academys hit of 2012. Leonard Cohen (78) singer, songwriter, poet and author. Currently on tour with his new album Old Ideas. Doris Lessing (92) novelist, poet, and librettist. In 2008 published part-fiction, partmemoir of her parents, Alfred and Emily.

winner Adele spoke about her admiration for singer and actress Peggy Lee. Lee continued to perform in her 70s. More than a century ago, the poet Robert Browning wrote: Grow old along with me, The best is yet to be. Creativity happens through connection, sharing ideas and experiencing life with curiosity through growth. It is not reserved just

for the rich and famous, young or old. In fact, research shows that creativity has a positive effect on mental and physical health and wellbeing throughout our lives. Age Concern Kingston recognises this and provides plenty of opportunities for creative expression through a range of activities in the borough.

From the intergenerational mural which adorns the walls of The Bradbury, to the Sound Communities singers who performed so movingly at the Queen Elizabeth II Performing Arts Centre recently (see page 6), members of our community are showing that later life can, indeed, be a time of creative expression and fulfilment.

Care reform delayed

Prime Minister David Cameron has come under renewed pressure from charity leaders as the much anticipated social care reform white paper is further delayed. Now, only a draft bill on overhauling care and support for elderly and disabled people in England was announced in the Queens Speech in May, but politicians remain divided on how care should be paid for. In 2010, the Health Reform White Paper promised legislation to establish a sustainable legal and financial framework for adult social care. In an open letter, 78 charities have warned Mr Cameron that millions of pensioners will be sentenced to living in misery and fear unless the Government takes action. Currently 800,000 older people are unable to get the care they need and unless the Government is prepared to deliver widespread and urgent reform of care for the elderly the number is set to increase. Over the last two years agenda news has highlighted the desperate need for social care reform. The issues surrounding the ageing population have been ducked and side stepped for years and its not only older people who are affected. This situation affects family members, tax payers, service users and consumers. The Department of Health will publish a progress report later in the spring, to go alongside the white paper.

Olympic events come to town

Torch Relay via Road Tuesday 24th July
The Torch will begin its journey through the Borough on 24 July 2012 at the Hook Centre, Chessington. More than 20 people from the local area including Ms Eileen Gray (see page 4) will then have the opportunity to carry the torch before handing over to our neighbours in Richmond.

Torch Relay via River Friday 27th July

On the final day of the Olympic Torch Relay, the Olympic Flame will travel down the River Thames through the centre of Kingston from Hampton Court Palace as it makes its way to the Olympic Stadium.

Olympic Road Race: Mens Saturday 28th July

Starting at The Mall in London, the Olympic male cyclists will cover a distance of 250km, travelling to Box Hill before returning to The Mall for the finish line. On route from Box Hill, all the cyclists will cross Kingston Bridge through the town centre.

Olympic Road Race: Womens Sunday 29th July

Carers recognised in pension reforms

In an overhaul of the UKs retirement system mothers and carers who stay at home will for the first time receive a full state pension. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith announced in May that women will be the major winners of the pension reform. Those who retire from 2015 will be given a flat rate payment worth at least 140 a week and treated as if they have been in paid employment throughout their lives. On average carers save the UK 119 billion a year and its estimated that 3.4 million (58%) of carers are women. Whilst its an important opportunity for women to gain recognition within the system for the work they do, wealthier workers will potentially be worse off due to the state second pension being scrapped. People will no longer be able to opt out of the additional state pension and invest the money saved into company schemes. The overall cost of the state pension will not increase, meaning other changes will be made to fund the change. The government will publish more details in the coming weeks.
How to contact us: Age Concern Kingston upon Thames 14 Nelson Road, New Malden, KT3 5EA Telephone: 020 8942 8256 Email: admin@ageconcernkingston.org Website: ageconcernkingston.org

The following day the Olympic women cyclists will set out on their mission to win Olympic gold, travelling a slightly shorter distance of 140km. Exactly as the men the previous day the women will cycle through Kingston.

Time Trial Wednesday 1st August

Elite male and female cyclists will compete in the time trial Olympic events. Starting at Hampton Court Palace, the men will cover a distance of 44km, whilst the women will cover 29km. Both groups will travel through the historic Market Place, past the Tourist Information Centre and over Kingston Bridge en route back to the finish line at the end of Hampton Court Road.

Disrupted travel in Kingston

Throughout the Olympic events in Kingston there will be rolling road closures and stations and lines will be particularly busy, including Kingston and Surbiton stations. You can minimise disruption to your journey by avoiding these stations at the busiest times. Some bus services will operate more frequently and there will also be some diversions. For further information on travel disruptions contact Transport for London on: 0843 222 1234 (24 hours a day) or visit www.tfl.gov.uk

Will Boris deliver?

In our winter edition of agenda news Boris Johnson said that as Mayor of London, he would focus on making London safer and better. Boris hopes to make transport more reliable by securing a 22bn investment, claiming he will continue to support the 24 hour Freedom Pass and the RE: NEW scheme to make houses more fuel efficient. The London mayor has responsibility for policies regarding Londons transport, planning and development, culture and the environment. He or she also sets the budgets for the Greater London Authority, the Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade, Transport for London and the London Development Agency. It remains to be seen whether he will take seriously the issues that older people face.

age concern
Kingston upon Thames

Editorial Team: Tom Bell, Anne Bren, Shane Brennan, Debbie Cottrell. agenda news email: agenda@ageconcernkingston.org You can view agenda news on our website: ageconcernkingston.org and follow the links. The views expressed in agenda news are not necessarily those of the trustees, staff or volunteers. Published by Age Concern Kingston upon Thames. Registered charity no. 299988 Company no. 2272550 Design: Eileen Higgins, email: eileen@eh-design.co.uk Print: Park Communications Ltd, telephone: 020 70556500. Printed on 100% recycled paper

Boris Johnson elected mayor May 2012

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Letters
Excellent value
I wish to express my gratitude to the staff and volunteers of The Bradbury Centre, which clearly provides excellent financial value to Kingston. Bradbury is a welcoming and encouraging place for active older people to meet. The wide variety of activities and experiences cater for an equally wide variety of personalities and interests even for someone as reluctant a joiner-in as myself. For some, surely, it acts as a real lifeline, helping them to remain independent and indeed enjoy life through the various crises, great and small, which are increasingly a threat as we age. Thank you, Age Concern Kingston, for your obvious efforts for us and for the older local population as a whole. Basil Hunt

Please send your letters & feedback to agenda news Age Concern Kingston upon Thames 14 Nelson Road, New Malden, KT3 5EA or send an email to agenda@ageconcernkingston.org

AGENDA EDITORIAL

Cold calling
We visit elderly people in the borough on behalf of GPs. Increasingly, my colleague and I have noticed that our patients are receiving cold calls while we are with them. It begs the question, that if they often get calls while we are with them for half an hour, then how many calls are they getting in total? I have photocopied instructions regarding the telephone preference and mail preference service for the patients I visit. I was wondering if you had mentioned these services in your magazine? Sue McDonagh Rapid Response, Advanced Nurse Practitioner Your Healthcare CIC We are grateful to Sue for her letter and have taken up her suggestion see page 5.

Bus dilemma can you help?

Summer of celebration
We are set to experience a sporting bonanza this summer, with the European Football Championships in June and the London Olympics. In this edition of agenda news we look forward to the summer of sport and beyond, with the cultural Olympiad giving an opportunity to celebrate life, art and culture. Our lead story celebrates the incredible creative contribution older artists are making many producing their career best. Although some would deem them aged they are in some cases setting new, higher standards in their individual fields they are also helping to redefine what it means to be getting older. Although we may choose, at a certain age, to retire from the role we have played in our working lives, there is no cut-off point where we have to stop exploring and pursuing new passions, whilst at the same time continuing to make an important contribution to our communities and society at large.

Whilst on the bus I came across a dilemma. Do I give my seat to the older lady standing near me? She looked older but she also looked really well; my fear was whether she would take offence if I asked. This is not the first time Ive had this situation and in fact a friend of mine was met with a fiery response when they offered their seat up. With everyone looking younger its hard to know what to do any advice on this would be appreciated. James (22), K1 bus rider

Contribution
On page 4 we focus on local resident Eileen Gray (92). In her heyday Eileen was a pioneer in womens cycling whose campaigning played a major part in women finally being included in Olympic cycling events in 1984. In honour of her contribution to the sport, she will carry the Olympic Torch through Kingston in July. Some readers will remember the last Olympics held in London in 1948, which were known as the Austerity Games, due to post-war privations. This years Olympics also take place against the background of an austere economic environment but there are many differences: people are generally living longer and are healthier and fitter than ever before this is all cause for celebration. The nature of later life in the first part of the 21st Century is a changing one, one where older people are making an increasingly positive and important contribution. So, although we may be in for a longer period of austerity, we can all take inspiration from former Olympians and those in later life who are producing ground-breaking works. Lets hope that the legacy of the Olympics and the Olympiad is an inclusive one, one that embraces the range and diversity of all that society has to offer and one that we can all celebrate.

Help at Home
I just wanted to let you know how fantastic my father has already found the Help at Home scheme. It is great for me to know that he is happy and to completely trust the lady who comes to help, so a big thank you from both of us for this amazing scheme. Kind regards Keira Harfield

Not on our own

I must say how very grateful we are to Age Concern Kingston. Everything and everybody are so caring and helpful. We could not ask for anything else. Knowing you are not on your own really makes you feel life is worth living. Mr and Mrs S (Clients of Stay Well at Home service)

Winners of the Guardian Public Services Award for Care of Older People 2011

Award winner Catherine Evans

Modest Catherine with Kingston Mayor Councillor Patrick Codd

Local hero Catherine Evans was presented with the prestigious Mayors Community Award in March this year. Catherine was nominated by Age Concern Kingston due to her continuous support for the local community. When asked what her secret was Catherine replied: if you are faced with a pompous person, just remember that they are 70% water, thats how Ive managed all these years. Catherine continued: its a way of life for me, I really dont deserve it. Everyone at Age Concern Kingston would like thank Catherine for her dedication and enthusiasm throughout 15 years of volunteering.

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AGENDA INTERVIEW

Olympic pioneer
Local resident Eileen Gray (92) spoke to agenda news about her life and work fighting for national recognition of womens competitive cycling.
So how did you feel when you were asked to carry the Olympic torch in Kingston? I was quite surprised that they had asked me, because I live on my own and I can get a bit weary sometimes. I cant get out shopping so Im just doing the best I can and constantly reassessing. I will have to be pushed by wheelchair but its very nice and I like the idea of it. Can you tell us about some of your experiences as a competitive cyclist, coach and campaigner for womens cycling? Oh yes! During WWII I had been invited to cycle at a Danish event in Ordurp, the organisers thought it would be a novelty. A year later I had my son so I retired from competitive racing, however there was plenty to do, I wanted to see women taken seriously. In 1946 I founded the Womens Cycle Racing Association. The first 21 years were turbulent; however we eventually managed to go from obscurity to the world championships and the Olympic Games. Over the years we took teams over the continent by plane, boat, car and train. It was a lot of fun. We had an American bus called Britannia that housed nine people and six bikes on the roof. We would travel to different countries with hardly any funds and compete at stage races and world championships. Can you tell us about your visit to East Germany in the 1960s? In those days the wall was still up. The Germans were really keen to be connected with Britain; they would I used to be a Conservative counsellor but when I heard that they were going to close down a local youth group I didnt vote for it. They said: What do you mean youre not going to vote for that? The Liberals started to get on board and I addressed the mayor and said: Mr Mayor I am not voting for the conservatives or the liberals, I am voting for the children. Ive just done what needed to be done and had a lot of fun along the way.
Eileen competing in uK championships

Eileen Gray, a former Kingston mayor (19901991) who helped womens cycling gain acceptance as an Olympic sport, will carry the London 2012 flame when it passes through Kingston on July 24th. A lifelong campaigner for womens cycle racing, Eileen led the struggle for the sport to be taken seriously: first, entry into international events, then establishing womens world records and finally, the greatest triumph, the inauguration of womens world championships. Eileen became the first female president of the British Cycling Federation in 1976, was made an MBE and CBE for services to cycling, was president of the London Youth Games and last year was inducted into the British Cycling Hall of Fame.

invite us over to race and put us up. Can you believe that I still keep in touch with those that I stayed with? Of course, we would invite their team over to race and they stayed in my home in Surbiton. We were all so kind to one another. It really did a lot of good with how Germany and Britain viewed each other. It didnt matter where you came from; it was the sport that was most important. Did you envisage when you first started racing how much you would achieve? Ive always worked hard for what I believe in and always will. For instance

When did you learn to ride a bike? I learnt to ride during the first year of the war, my dad said: Why dont you get a bike? I didnt know how to ride and nor did he. He got on it didnt know how to stop and went over the fence! In those days you could cycle round local parks and thats where I used to practice. When I was there some of the local boys took an interest in me. They asked me to join their club and eventually I joined so I could speak to the lads. Since then clearly an awful lot has happened. When was the last time you cycled? Oh blimey, I dont know. I carried on until I was mid-70. What would you advise anyone wanting to get into sport? Go to the local council and see whats on. I think everyone should go out and ride a bike.

Eileen Gray has been a member of Age Concern Kingstons In Touch service for two years. See page 7 for more information about the scheme. See page 2 for a complete listing of Olympic events in and around Kingston.

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Brian Woods

First Contact l 020 8408 8170

Age Concern Kingston telephone helpline number, open Monday to Friday 10.00am 12.00 noon

Mind your Mind

We now have good evidence that adopting a brain healthy lifestyle may reduce your risk of developing dementia. Alzheimers Australias Mind your Mind programme involves seven signposts or health messages to help keep your brain healthy. Mind your Brain Challenge your brain with new activities, eg learn a language, do puzzles or crosswords, read or enrol in a course. Mind your Diet Eat fruit and vegetables, legumes, wholegrain breads and cereals, fish, lean meats, reduced-fat dairy products, unsaturated oils such as olive, sunflower, canola, and flaxseed. Mind your Body Be physically active in ways you enjoy, eg walk, play sport, go to the gym, dance, do yoga, pilates or tai chi, do gardening. Mind your Health Checks See your doctor to make sure your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight are healthy for you. Mind your Social Life Catch up with family and friends, join a club or group, volunteer, or go to events. Mind your Habits Dont smoke, drink alcohol in moderation and manage sleep problems. Mind your Head Take care not to fall, take care as a pedestrian, wear a seat belt, and wear a helmet when riding or for certain sports.
Brian Woods

Stop those unwanted calls!

Unsolicited telemarketing, or cold, calls can be unwelcome, but most of them can be prevented by registering free with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). It is a legal requirement that all organisations (including charities, voluntary organisations and political parties) do not make such calls to numbers registered on the TPS unless they have your consent to do so. Mobile phone numbers can be registered but it is important to note that this will not prevent unwanted SMS (text) messages. To stop receiving SMS marketing messages, send an opt-out request to the company involved. To register your telephone number with TPS, call 0845 070 0707 or go online to www.tpsonline.org.uk. The TPS is administered on behalf of Ofcom by the British direct marketing industry, which also runs the Mailing Preference Service, which enables you to reduce the amount of unwanted direct mail you receive. Be wary of people calling you claiming to be from the Telephone or Mailing Preference Services asking for payment to complete your registration. These are FREE services. If you would like help to register or to know more about any of the above, call Age Concern Kingstons First Contact.

Playing bowls can help keep you fit in body and mind

What the budget means for older people

George Osbornes 2012 Budget has been dubbed both a Granny Tax assault and a Robin Hood raid. Whatever your viewpoint, here are some of the main areas which affect older people. Income Tax If you pay tax, your personal allowance (the amount you can earn before you pay tax) went up from April 2012. From April this year, people aged 65 to 74 receive an allowance of 10,500 and people aged 75 and over receive 10,660 allowance, subject to an income limit. Age-related allowances will be phased out, starting from next year, meaning there will eventually be one level of personal allowance for everyone. This has been dubbed the granny tax by the media, as pensioners will no longer get a special tax exemption. Winter fuel payments The budget made no reference to Winter Fuel Payments. This means that unless there are any further announcements during the year, in winter 2012/13 the payment will be 200 for households where people have reached womens state pension age and 300 for people aged 80 or over. Inheritance tax There is no change to the inheritance tax (IHT) threshold the first 325,000 of inheritance when somebody dies is exempt from IHT. But from April, the rate of IHT for estates over 325,000 which leave 10% or more to charity will be cut from 40% to 36%. Other changes Higher duties have been imposed on tobacco products with an increase in duty of 5% above inflation (the equivalent of 37p on a packet of cigarettes). Fuel duty will rise by 3p a litre in August as planned and car tax will rise by inflation. There is no change to existing plans on alcohol duty it will rise 2% above the rate of inflation (adding more than 5p to the price of a pint).

Keep cool
Although its been raining for the last three weeks before we go to print, its important to be aware of how to stay cool and refreshed during hot summer days. Heat-related illnesses that include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are common amongst older people, so here are some simple tips:
l Keep out of the heat l Avoid strenuous activity l to spend time in the coolest parts of your home Try l Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing l Splash yourself with cold water l damp towels or cloths to cool off Use l Drink lots of fluids l cold food such as salads and fruit Eat l Keep up to date with the forecast.

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Raleigh House
Raleigh House provides a warm and friendly environment for those over 60 who are seeking companionship and daily activity. You can choose to attend for a full day, including a hot lunch, or half a day. Transport is available to and from the centre for those who need it, every day except Wednesday, or we can help you access alternative transport. The centre is spacious, with a large lounge and dining room, an arts and crafts room, a coffee lounge and a pleasant courtyard garden and terrace. One-to-one computer lessons are also available for members and non-members. Opening times: Monday Friday: 10.00am 4.00pm Raleigh House, 14 Nelson Road, New Malden KT3 5EA Telephone: 020 8949 4244 Email: dcadmin@ageconcernkingston.org Centre Manager: Cathy Weight

The Bradbury
The Bradbury is a drop in centre for the over 50s. With a lively, vibrant and friendly atmosphere, Bradbury offers a wide range of activities, from tai chi and yoga, to dancing classes or computer lessons. Just a ten minute walk from Kingston town, The Bradbury is a good place to come for a bite to eat. Our caf serves drinks, snacks, lunches (including a roast lunch on a Wednesday) and plenty of homemade cakes. In the summer you can eat al fresco as we have a pleasant patio garden. The Bradbury, 37b Grange Road, Kingston KT1 2RA Telephone: 020 8549 1230 Email: bradbury@ageconcernkingston.org Centre Coordinator: Lucy Webster

Stomping and sliding in Skegness

14 members of Bradburys Tuesday morning line dancing group made an expedition in March to Skegness, for a weeks line dancing. The group, none of whom knew each other before joining the class at Bradbury, were inspired by dance teacher Pauline Marlehams accounts of her experience on such trips. On the morning of departure, which thankfully was not too early, the line dancers assembled in Kingston to await the coach. A jolly journey got the group to the hotel, where after a splendid four-course meal the real fun started the dancing. Mornings saw line dancing tuition with the afternoons free to visit local attractions, especially tea shops, or to take the coach to other towns. Evenings were spent enjoying excellent meals and dancing in the cheerful company of other groups. Spirits were not dampened by the uniformly overcast and misty weather which meant that the dancers only spotted the huge offshore wind farm on the last morning when the cloud lifted! If you are interested in line dancing and would like to get involved, contact Lucy Webster at Bradbury.

Getting a Wii bit fitter

Cheers echoed around Raleigh House on 18th April as John Lewis Kingstons Joel Patterson introduced members to virtual bowling. Customers nominated Age Concern Kingston for the stores Community Matters scheme, as a result of which a Nintendo Wii has been donated to Raleigh, along with a staff member to run game sessions with members. The group were in tears of laughter as Joel showed them how to use the Wii. After some practice many found their competitive edge as they bowled and Raleigh House member Ken Bell played golf on the console. comes in wiinning, with Joel The Wii is a game system that is Patterson of John Lewis Kingston controlled by the actions of the player. Sitting or standing, it involves movement, which is great for those who may not have the strength or stamina to join in with the real sport. Oh its really great fun. Im thinking about getting one for home its so good, laughed Raleigh House member and former volunteer Norma White. Lene Wood, John Lewiss Community Liaison Coordinator, said: Community Matters is a great opportunity for our staff to get out and get involved locally and were delighted that weve been able to do something a bit different with Age Concern Kingston. John Lewis staff will continue to support members and centre staff throughout May and June.

The Bradbury Internet Caf

Bring your laptop for help from friendly volunteers and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at the same time. 1st Tuesday of the month, 2 4pm, 2 per person including tea/coffee. Next dates: Tuesday 3rd July, Tuesday 7th August and Tuesday 4th September.

Sing your hearts out

Sound Communities concert Raleigh singers with Phil Mullen on guitar

Members of Raleigh House and The Bradbury received applause and cheers after performing in a concert in Kingston alongside other community groups in March. The performance was the finale of a 10-week project with Kingston Sound Communities. Professional musician Phil Mullen and volunteers Roshi and Julia worked with groups of people at both Age Concern centres, singing well-known songs such as You Are My Sunshine, Edelweiss and Jealous Love. The groups also had the opportunity to write and perform their own songs.

The members really enjoyed the experience. Raleigh House user Estelle Louise Russell (82) said: The group were asked to come up with lyrics, someone said,I havent got a clue, so I said, What were gonna do, were gonna do something everyone can do lets dance. I was surprised that it was that easy to write a song. I have had a great time. Sound Communities was a musical learning project provided in partnership with Kingston Adult Education funded by the Skills Funding Agency.

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Age Concern Kingstons projects and services

Meeting her In Touch caller John Bateman for the first time, former Olympic cyclist Eileen Gray quipped that he didnt look as she had imagined him. Talking to agenda news in April she said: Its people like him, the very nice people that dont get made a fuss of. I think the service has really helped me. Read our interview with Eileen Gray on page 4.
Brian Woods

Making later life a greater life

DIARY DATES
Age Concern training and events
Raleigh Saturday Club
A service for people living with dementia, their family members and supporters. Second Saturday of the month, 11.00am 2.00pm at Raleigh House. Next dates: 9th June, 14th July. 3 per person including refreshments and a light lunch (served at 12.00 noon). Contact Raleigh House on 020 8942 8256/020 8949 4244 or email admin@ageconcernkingston.org if you would like to attend or for more information.

Mobility Club
For people using mobility scooters or wheelchairs. Second Wednesday of the month, 3.00pm 4.30pm at Raleigh House. Contact Cathy on 020 8942 8256/020 8949 4244 or email cathy@ageconcernkingston.org for more information or if you would like to attend.

In Touch
As we grow older, there may be many factors which limit our social contact with others, whether through reduced mobility, health issues or bereavement. In Touch is a telephone befriending service which aims to address a basic need to communicate and be listened to, in order to maintain our psychological wellbeing. In the 12 years since Age Concern Kingston launched the scheme, over 200 isolated older residents have been supported on a long-term basis through a fortnightly telephone call.

Lunch Clubs
In partnership with RBK in Chessington and New Malden. The Fountain Court The Charles Lesser Lunch Club Lunch Club Tuesdays Wednesdays (12.00pm 2.00pm) (12.00pm 2.00pm) Fountain Court, New Malden Charles Lesser House, Chessington For more information call 020 8942 8256.

combating loneliness
because you get back what you put in; its fantastic to make a difference in peoples lives and thats why we do it.

Whats on in Kingston
Kingston Pensioners Forum
Second Monday of the month at Richard Mayo Hall, United Reformed Church, Eden Street, Kingston. For more info call the Secretary on 020 8241 9913.

Evidence
Research demonstrates that loneliness has an effect on mortality that is similar in size to cigarette smoking. It is associated with poor mental health and conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and dementia. The Department of Health has recognised that this is a serious issue, issuing guidance to local authorities on how to combat loneliness. Recent research published in the journal Health and Social Care in the Community found that low-cost telephone befriending services helped older people to gain confidence, reengage with the community and become socially active again.

u3A Kingston
First Monday of the month, 1.30pm at the Richard Mayo Hall. For more information see the website www.kingstonu3a.org.uk or call 020 8399 0163.

Isolation
Isolation affects many older people in the borough. Brian Downs speaks about his regular call as a real lifeline: The call means a lot to me, its nice to know that someone takes notice of me as I never see anyone other than my cleaner.

Malden Fortnight
From 30th June to 15th July there will be music, performance, craft fairs and a parade in and around New Malden High Street.

Dedication
The service relies upon staff and volunteers who are passionate and dedicated. Mrs Joy Devis volunteers one morning a week and really enjoys the role: I love talking with people, the people I call are so pleased to talk with someone; its really rewarding. John Bateman, In Touch coordinator says: These projects work so well

National Carers Week 2012

Carers Week 2012 will take place from 18-24 June; this years theme is In sickness and in health, highlighting the impact social care cuts have on carers health and wellbeing. Kingston is planning to celebrate the contribution carers make locally with a range of events including an information day, day trip to Hampton Court and Thames Walk fundraiser. To find out more contact Kingston Carers Network on 020 3031 2757.

Get in touch
If you would like to learn more about the In Touch service, or if you are interested in becoming an In Touch volunteer, please contact Tulloch Kempe on: 020 8942 8256 or email: tulloch@ageconcernkingston.org.

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age concern
Kingston upon Thames

Delivering Help at Home!

Do you or anyone you know, need help with any of the following?
l l l l l Cleaning Laundry and ironing Shopping, collecting prescriptions and posting letters Cooking and other household tasks Regular social outings
As we grow older, managing the everyday practicalities and tasks of a home in later years can be both difficult and daunting and can also be a worry for our family and friends. Help at Home provides support with a range of practical tasks in and around the home, as well as social support and a direct link to all of Age Concern Kingstons other services, such as our In Touch telephone befriending scheme and Handyperson service. All staff members are trained, fully insured and CRB checked and can make sure that you get the right help if your circumstances change.

How does the Help at Home service work?

We will arrange an initial home assessment at a convenient time for you, and then match you with an experienced Home Helper. You will also receive an information pack about our full range of services.

How much does the Help at Home service cost?

There is a straightforward hourly charge of 14 (plus any expenses such as petrol for shopping trips). To find out more contact us at Age Concern Kingston on 020 8942 8256 or email: admin@ageconcernkingston.org.

Little jobs need doing? Time to get fixing

Our Handyperson service can carry out small repairs, maintenance and adaptations which you might find difficult to do yourself, such as fitting a grab rail or curtain rail, changing a light bulb, hanging a shelf or fitting window locks and door chains. We aim to ensure that our customers remain safe and secure within their homes. We can carry out tasks that help prevent falls and improve home safety. The service is open to anyone over the age of 55 years old and any adult with a disability who lives in the Borough of Kingston. It costs 20 for the first hour and then 15 an hour thereafter. Grass cutting and garden tidy also available. Plus! We can provide one to one computer tuition and help with setting up laptops, tuning in digiboxes, DVD recorders and players. For more information or to book an appointment call Heather on 020 8942 8256 or email: heather@ageconcernkingston.org.

Charity Number 299988