Almost all of us will experience bereavement during our lives. Losing a relative, partner or close friend can be devastating at any age, but many older people find it particularly difficult to deal with the dislocation and loneliness brought about by the death of a companion.
Age Concern Morgannwg has identified bereavement support as an area where it can expand its services. To this end, a brand new Bereavement Fund is to be launched, providing practical support to older people suffering bereavement in the community. The fund has been named ‘Reaching Out’ to reflect its mission of extending a helping hand to those who need one most.
Age Concern Morgannwg already has a track record of helping older people experiencing bereavement, as shown by the case of Mr B.
An Age Concern Morgannwg outreach worker first visited Mr B in 2010, a month after his wife had passed away. Mr B had been her main carer for four years, despite suffering from health problems of his own. The death of his partner left Mr B in a very isolated situation and lacking in confidence. He was housebound and would sometimes go a complete week without seeing anyone.
Early assessments by ACM benefits staff also showed Mr B was not getting the full financial support to which he was entitled. A successful claim for Attendance Allowance was carried out, and this extra income helped Mr B to better manage his practical affairs in the difficult period following his wife’s death. As his relationship with the outreach worker developed, Mr B also agreed to be escorted out of doors on weekly trips. He has even attended two Age Concern Morgannwg functions, where he mixed with other service users.
Age Concern Morgannwg chief executive Rachel Rowlands says: “This case study illustrates how readily bereavement can restrict the quality of life of an older person. However, it can also be seen that with appropriate support, individuals can be helped through these difficult periods. The Reaching Out Bereavement Fund will provide a more dedicated and specialised support service to those who need it most”.
To raise awareness and money for the Reaching Out Bereavement Fund, Rachel will be undertaking the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge on June 9th-10th, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon. If you would like to contribute to the Fund, please sponsor her online via www.justgiving.com/rachel-rowlands or call in to see us at Principality House, Rear of 31 Taff Street, Pontypridd.
Staff and volunteers from Age Concern Morgannwg also took
part in the celebrations by holding an Information and Advice stall in the
Health & Wellbeing Marquee. The event was an
opportunity to engage with local residents and promote our various services,
ranging from our Nail Cutting Service to our Hospital Discharge Service.
