Omaze-ing News: £20,000 Boost To Support Isolated Older People Across The Island

Age UK Isle of Wight (AUKIW) has received a £20,000 funding boost for its award-winning Good Neighbour Scheme (GNS), thanks to a record-breaking £5.2 million raised through a luxury house raffle organised by Omaze on behalf of Age UKs across the country.

As one of the independent brand partners of Age UK, the local charity is proud to highlight how this funding will directly benefit the local community.

The allocated income will fund the “No Home for Loneliness Programme 2025 – 2026”, which restricts the £20,000 grant money received directly towards supporting isolated people aged 50+ in our community.

“It’s often assumed that funds raised nationally by Age UK automatically come to us, but it takes a lot of time to apply for and secure these grants,” said Cally Trott, PR and MarComms Executive at AUKIW.

“We are proud to have successfully secured £20,000 through the partnership with Omaze.

"The money will be used to support isolated people on the Island to re-engage with their local community through our agreed pledge with the funders to deliver 26,666 hours across the Island before the programme ends in 2026.”

This funding will be instrumental in helping combat isolation and loneliness among older Islanders, promoting a more inclusive and age-friendly community.

AUKIW understands that many older adults can go days or even weeks without meaningful connections.

The GNS has transformed the lives of thousands of locals over the years.

Last year alone, the charity supported an average of 174 isolated older people every month, delivering 3,755 home visits and making 5,051 telephone befriending calls.

Small moments of connection can be truly transformative for these individuals. This service is funded solely by donations.

One poignant example of the impact the GNS has is the story of Linda;

After experiencing the loss of her husband, Linda felt isolated, living alone while her family resided on the mainland. Concerned for her well-being, her daughter referred her to GNS in December 2024.

Isla, a GNS volunteer, was put in touch with Linda and began visiting her weekly, building a strong relationship.

During their time together, Isla learned about Linda's struggles and encouraged her to attend a local bereavement group and coffee morning - initially accompanying her for support.

In just four months, Linda’s journey has been remarkable.

She has transformed from being housebound to confidently engaging with her community again, even attending events alone.

It’s now almost impossible for AUKIW to check-in with her progress over the phone, as she is often out and about enjoying all that life has to offer.

With the continued support of initiatives like the Good Neighbour Scheme, the charity strive to ensure that every older person feels connected and cared for in our community.

For more information about Age UK Isle of Wight and the Good Neighbour Scheme, please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/isleofwight/our-services/good-neighbour-scheme/ or contact 01983 525282.