NZCT Boosts Age Concern Otago’s Services with $10,000 Grant!

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a $10,000 grant to Age Concern Otago to help support their team in providing essential services to seniors across Otago.

Age Concern Otago’s Visiting Service, led by Tristan Kavanagh, has been a lifeline for elderly people feeling isolated. Since Covid-19, they’ve seen a sharp increase in loneliness and this service plays a vital role in connecting seniors with volunteer visitors, making a huge difference to their wellbeing.

Research shows that social connection significantly impacts health, with the combined programmes over 1,080 volunteers contributing an estimated $1.2 million worth of support annually.

Participant Sheila J. highlights the service’s positive impact, “I really look forward to my visitor as I’ve started to go out again and now feel safe doing so. I’m not feeling so lonely or as depressed anymore.” Fellow participant John B. shares “It’s nice to make new friends. You don’t get many chances to meet many people at my age!”

Kristen Beardsmore, Health Promotions Coordinator, leads a variety of courses aimed at educating and empowering older adults. She identified a growing need and desire for such programmes within the community, which inspired her to develop these initiatives. Courses offered include Talking Cafes, ‘Dancing for Joy’ afternoons, independent living seminars, safe driving workshops, and smartphone courses focused on identifying scams and staying safe online."

Participant Ellen O. shares “Things are so much easier when someone has taken the time to teach you.”

Community Social Worker, Annie Nevin, has received over two hundred social work referrals this year, focusing on vulnerable seniors with complex needs. She notes the lack of support for elders with special needs with many struggling with issues like financial stress, poor access to healthcare, and challenges accessing online services like banking, shopping, and housing applications due to the shift from landlines to modems.

NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges, adds, “It’s important to ensure that older members of society can live with dignity, are well cared for, and remain safe and valued. We’re proud that the funds raised through our responsible gaming partnership with our Otago venues has made this a reality.