A CHARITY helping the elderly tackle loneliness and regain their independence has merged two of its Hampshire branches in a bid to extend its services.

Age UK has united its Winchester and Andover districts so it can provide more home visits, mentors and lunch clubs across the region.

More than 1,500 vulnerable older people are served by the charity.

The launch of Age UK Mid-Hampshire was attended by around 50 users and volunteers, as well as dignitaries including deputy mayor of Winchester Cllr Jane Rutter and Cllr Iris Andersen, mayor of Test Valley.

Dr Linda Edwards, chairman of Age UK Mid-Hampshire said: “Age UK Mid Hampshire will build on the good work of its predecessors. Within the ever-changing landscape of health and social care, charities like ours have a unique opportunity to provide the help and support that statutory bodies are unable to provide.

“Our understanding of what is important to older people and how to provide the support that enables them to live independent, enjoyable lives is a gift we should cherish and nurture.”

The launch coincides with Age UK’s Christmas campaign, No One should have No One, which highlights loneliness in old age.

The mid-Hampshire branch is looking to extend its lunch clubs, Help at Home scheme and befriending and mentoring services.

Mike Simpson, chief executive, said: “We also plan to increase the number of people to whom we give advice on access to benefits, as we know this helps them maintain their independence. Based on our current success rate, we estimate we will help people access more than £7 million of payments due to them over the next five years. This is additional money they will spend in the local economy.”

It is estimated that Hampshire will have a third more over-85s in 2021 compared to 2014.

For details on Age UK Mid-Hampshire, call 01962 871712 or 01264 354425.