Age Concern Hampshire
Age Concern Hampshire is proud to be celebrating 40 years of caring for older people across Hampshire since 1985 and we continue to evolve to ensure we support them to live well independently for longer. We use our knowledge and experience to respond to the needs of local people throughout their ageing journey.
Project Overview
ACH provides support to older people across Hampshire to ensure they have access to information, services, and opportunities to live well and age gracefully. We recognize that social engagement plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving their health. As individuals age, social connections become increasingly important for their overall well-being, significantly impacting mental health, cognitive function, and physical health. Unfortunately, many older people face challenges that can lead to social isolation, which may result in depression, anxiety, and other health issues.
As a long-standing independent organization in Hampshire, we have established a trusted brand where service users collaborate with us to co-design impactful solutions. ACH's free social groups are tried and tested, consistently receiving positive feedback that highlights the importance of older people socializing, engaging in stimulating activities, and connecting with others. These opportunities allow attendees to build social connections that provide a sense of belonging, purpose, and support, helping to alleviate stress, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, these social interactions can stimulate our brains and help maintain cognitive function.
During the pilot phase of this project (June 2024 – February 2025), we found that attending these groups resulted in the following outcomes:
- Nearly 50% of attendees felt more engaged within the community.
- 74% became more physically active due to light exercise sessions.
- Over 80% felt more confident in socializing with new connections.
- 30% of attendees went on to access further support and information.
Our groups are also vital for improving physical health among participants. The activities offered are not just enjoyable; they are structured to enhance mobility, balance, and strength. Engaging in group exercises fosters social interaction, making workouts both enjoyable and beneficial.
Why are we crowdfunding
ACH is seeking external funding support to continue offering social groups to older people in the area. These groups were previously funded by various grants and statutory contributions, but due to budget cuts, that funding has ended. Instead of charging fees to vulnerable older individuals—which would make the groups unaffordable for many—ACH aims to cover the costs internally.
socialisingHow we’ll spend the money raised
ACH seeks funding to continue running the groups from this venue for the remainder of the year. This will help cover the costs of coordination, support, recruitment, training, and refreshments for attendees.
Check out the live projects we're supporting
Alex Wish Duchenne Virtual Ward Project
Alex's Wish is a charity dedicated to conquering Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. A progressive, life-limiting muscle-wasting disease that affects 1 in every 3,500 boys born. We are a family-run charity, set-up by Alex's parents 13 years ago after discovering there is not enough funding going into medical research to find treatments and a cure for those living with Duchenne in the UK.
Rainbows Hospice Gardens
Rainbows cares for hundreds of families every year who have a baby, child or young person with a serious or terminal illness that means that their lives will be shorter than most. We support every baby, child and young person to fulfil their potential, and help families make the most of every precious moment, while capturing memories and keepsakes to treasure. We’re here for the whole family, offering comfort and compassion during tough times, providing the highest level of professional care until the end, and support after. Simply put, we’re here to brighten short lives, and support families, wherever they are.
Forever Stars
Forever Stars is a registered charity run by volunteers, dedicated to supporting families experiencing baby loss, including early miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal loss. We offer compassionate assistance from the time families are in the hospital and throughout their lifelong journey of grief. Our services are available to all family members, regardless of when they seek support, whether immediately after their loss or many years later.
