Age UK Bromsgrove Redditch & Wyre Forest is a local, independent charity which supports older people, their families and carers across North Worcestershire.
The Charity Shop on Mason Road in Headless Cross plays a huge role is supported by a number of local volunteers, who help to increase social interactions among members of the community.
“You get youngster and some older people come in just for a chat. You know, they never buy anything, they’ll have a look around, and then we’ll chat… it’s probably the only person they might see all day, so it’s good for me, it’s good for them… To be truthful with you, I buried my wife and went straight into lockdown. And I was there for about two and a half years. And I got down. As you can imagine. I was just sat one day looking at the internet and I saw Age UK. So, I give it a ring… I’m stuck on my own. I don’t see many people, I don’ talk to many people. So, this is ideal for me. I mix with people, chat. And I love it.” – Age UK Volunteer
“They’re very regular, familiar customers and that, and you get to know them. It’s just nice to meet people, a bit of social intervention, and it’s nice to talk to the customers.” – Age UK Volunteer
This story was created as part of the Celebrating Community Stories Project 2023 – 2024. Public Health at Worcestershire County Council worked with organisations across the County to find out what keeps Worcestershire healthy, active and creative. To find out more about the Community Stories Project visit Celebrating Community Stories (worcestershire.gov.uk)