A local charity is transforming the lives of older people across the borough, offering vital support, friendship and community to those who need it most. 

Age UK Richmond, while sharing a name with the national charity Age UK, operates proudly as an independent, self-funded organisation focused solely on residents within Richmond Upon Thames. 

They are making a deep local impact through their range of services and activities with funding support from charitable foundations and Richmond Council.

Carol Horne, Wellbeing service manager of Age UK Richmond, who has been working for the organisation for 11 years said: "I feel like I've got about 50 grandmas in this job, it's great and so rewarding." 

At the heart of the charity work is it's staff and 100 volunteers, who sacrifice their free time to give support and guidance to elderly people.   

The charity's vibrant wellbeing programme is redefining what later life can look like, with tailored activities that meet the needs of today's retirees. 

Far from outdated stereotypes of older ladies sitting knitting all day, Horne explained the classes are far from that. 

Horne said: "The people retiring now are baby boomers, they want ABBA and David Bowie."

Attendees can partake in the ukulele club playing Taylor Swift at The Cabbage Patch pub in Twickenham, or get their dancing shoes out for a day time disco to 70s rock and pop music. 

With three centres located in Whitton, Barnes and Twickenham, Age UK Richmond runs around 85 activities every week for the elderly to partake in to help tackle loneliness and keep people connected. 

While exercise classes like yoga and Zumba Gold are popular, Horne says the real value lies in what happens around them, the community and friendships formed. 

"We create a second home for people", says Horne. 

Two elderly widowed women who attend the strength training classes each week have become friends over the years, said: "it's made a big difference, my legs aren't so flabby, I mean they aren't like a 21 year old but the classes mean I'm active and mobile.

"They look after older people so well here, it's great being retired." 

Some of the charity's most impactful initiatives are designed to reach groups at a higher risk of isolation.

One standout is the 'Walking football club', held at St Mary's University in Teddington, three times a week. 

Played at a slower pace, it attracts around 30 participants per session and was designed to ensure men have a space of their own. 

Horne illustrated that, "women are often better at chatting and making friends, but for men, football is a common language and the friendships follow from that."

Another initiative, 'Man with a pan', teaches cooking skills to older men inspired by a widower who admitted he was tired of eating beans on toast.

Participants cook a two-course meal, eat together and even tackle the washing up as a group.

The charity ensures inclusivity across its classes, with particular initiatives for men, women as well as for elders of the LGBTQ+ community. 

The rainbow cafe offers a safe space for LGBTQ+ older people who may be more likely to experience loneliness due to family estrangement or lack of traditional support networks.

Age UK Richmond through its resources prevents elderly people from ending up in crisis and also helps reduce pressure on public services, including the NHS and social care. 

However, Horne emphasised the importance of directing donations correctly, "we could have supported someone for 20 years, but if their family leaves money to Age UK nationally, it won't come to us.

"It's really important people specify Age UK Richmond."

Despite its wide reach, the charity operates on modest resources.

Horne said: "We can do good activities on a shoestring."

Volunteers in particular run free IT classes, helping older residents learn essential digital skills, from using WhatsApp too booking GP appointments.

Horne added: "people feel really left behind, and almost illiterate without those skills.

"We're very grateful for our volunteers because it enables us to help more people."

Local Richmond residents over the age of 55 are encouraged to try a class or attend an outing. 

Horne illustrates that "it's a bit like fresher's week at university, everyone is in the same boat and looking to make friends. 

"You will be greeted with a warm welcome."