Age UK's Spirit of Age Awards has been launched to recognise those who have made an important contribution to support older people.
The charity aims to reward individuals who are supporting older people who feel lonely or isolated, whether that means helping someone get to and from appointments or even providing opportunities to learn new skills.
The award categories include the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness Award which recognises those who have made a special contribution to tackling loneliness.
Kim Leadbeater, sister of MP Jo Cox, said: “It’s lovely to see so many people doing their bit to help reduce loneliness amongst older people. It’s such an important issue for the nation to tackle and it’s a cause that was dear to Jo’s heart. Her family are really gratified to see her legacy being continued in this way. I hope it encourages people of all generations to reach out and support older people in their community.”
In addition to the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness Award, categories include Later Life Hero Award, Outstanding Community Organisation Award, Equality and Diversity Award, Age UK Befriending Award, Age UK Retail Award and Age UK Fundraising Award.
Age UK ambassador Dame Barbara Windsor will be attending the event to present the awards to winners. Dame Barbara Windsor, said: “I’m honoured to be part of such a wonderful event that celebrates those that have gone the extra mile to help older people. It’s such a worthy cause and something I’m so pleased to see so many people are taking the time to do. As well as recognising those that are doing tremendous things to help, hopefully this event will inspire so many more people to join the movement and help older people.”
Lydia Curran, Head of Events at Age UK, said: “The Spirit of Age awards are all about celebrating the work of the incredible people, of all ages, who are giving up their time to help older people and we want to recognise all of their hard work. Age UK is encouraging friends, family members and colleagues to nominate someone they know who helps an older person.”
The closing date for nominations to be submitted for 2017’s Spirit of Age Awards is midday on Friday 28th April.
