Age UK Norwich has been awarded a £3,000 grant from The Clan Trust to support its emergency hardship fund – providing urgent, life-saving support for older people facing financial crisis in the city. From emergency food vouchers to help with heating costs, this funding will allow Age UK Norwich to step in quickly when people over 50 need it most.
This funding will enable Age UK Norwich to continue providing urgent support such as food vouchers, help with energy bills, and essential household items to older people facing acute financial hardship. The grant follows the success of previous Clan Trust support in 2023 and recognises the charity’s proven ability to deliver life-changing interventions for vulnerable individuals.
With rising costs and ongoing delays in statutory support, many older people in Norwich – particularly those in Reducing Inequalities Target Areas (RITA) – are struggling with poverty, isolation, and the challenges of declining health. The Client Support Fund bridges the gap, ensuring that no older person is left waiting weeks for the help they desperately need.
“Time and time again, we see how same-day, tailored support can prevent a crisis from becoming a catastrophe,” said Jamie Price, Head of Service Delivery at Age UK Norwich. “This generous grant from The Clan Trust means we can step in quickly to help older people with the essentials – food, warmth, safety – and support them in rebuilding their confidence and independence.”
The fund’s value is best illustrated through the words of a recent client, who wrote:
“Thank you for your incredible support during what has been the lowest point in my life. I’ve been dealing with memory loss, physical health issues, and mental health struggles, all while grieving the recent loss of both my parents. As if that wasn’t enough, I also suffered a stroke. It’s been overwhelming – but your help made a real difference when I needed it most.”
This client, now recovering from a stroke and living alone, was supported through the hardship fund at a critical time. He has since received assistance applying for Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit and is now being helped to access a discretionary housing payment to avoid further hardship. Without fast, compassionate intervention, he might have fallen through the cracks.
Age UK Norwich’s accredited advisers deliver holistic support in partnership with local health services, outreach teams, and statutory agencies. Monitoring data shows:
- 100% of clients report knowing where to access help after receiving support
- 90% feel better equipped to manage their situation
- 80% report improved financial confidence
Crucially, every penny of this £3,000 Clan Trust grant will be used for direct client support.
While this funding will make a significant difference to the independent charity, demand continues to grow. Age UK Norwich is actively seeking additional support from charitable trusts, the local community, and public sector partners to sustain and expand the Client Support Fund.