Age UK to start new classes after closure

Age UK Blackpool and District – which had shops on Highfield Road, Whitegate Drive and Red Bank Road, in Bispham – called in the administrators in January.

The charity, based out of offices on Abingdon Street, recorded losses of more than £20,000 in 2016 – the second consecutive year its accounts showed a five-figure deficit.

Now staff at Age UK Lancashire – which was unaffected by the closure as it is a separate charity – say they have been looking at ways in which they can operate in the town to ensure the older population are able to access vital services.

Consultations were held earlier this year to find out what older people wanted and which other organisations could also provide links to support each other, resulting in the creation of the ‘Get Up and Go’ exercise class.

Anne Oliver, community engagement manager for Age UK Lancashire, said: “We learned from the consultations that there is a great demand and need for services and activity groups.

“Consequently we were delighted to receive funding for a Get UP and Go project aimed at keeping people active and improving or maintaining mobility.

“We hope this will lead to further funding and provide a sustainable support network for people who attend.”

The Get Up and Go gentle exercise and activity sessions at Kilmory and Aysgarth Court Sheltered Housing Schemes, Marton, are open to anyone over 55 regardless of fitness levels. The sessions will take place every Wednesday and will cost £1 after a free first session.

Ms Oliver added: “The changing nature of the charitable sector and limited funding means we have to make a small charge to ensure the activity is sustainable and can be continued beyond the end of 2017.

“We hope the sessions will become really popular and plan to start more in other areas on Blackpool if the demand is there.”

Last year, Age UK Blackpool supported more than 7,000 people with information, advice, assessments and hospital aftercare.

The charity, which attracted more than 70 volunteers across the Fylde coast, had outgoings of £743,409 compared to an income of £722,904 - resulting in a loss of £20,505.

This followed a £36,893 deficit in 2015.

Age UK Blackpool was an independent branch of the charity separate from the county-wide Age UK Lancashire.