We provide transport, shopping and friendship to those needing a little support across the Wirral.
Our network of volunteers support over 750 clients each year who rely on us for vital help which would otherwise not be available.
About Us
The elderly on the Wirral and the need for our services
The elderly face unique challenges. While some are lucky to have family and friends to assist as they grow older, there are many whose networks grow ever-smaller with time and those with no one to rely on. It’s a sad fact that in the UK 1million older people go a full month without speaking to anyone. Here at Helplink, it is our goal to provide the regular support needed by those with no one else to call on.
Across the Wirral, the issues and challenges of aging are felt more acutely. Older people (those aged 65+) make up almost 20% of the Wirral population – a percentage that is expected to grow to over 27% by 2032. Compared to the rest of England, the elderly on the Wirral face lower life expectancy and a higher rate of people in nursing and residential care. Some other facts to consider about those aged 65+ on the Wirral:
Over 27,000 live alone
Over 30,000 have a limiting long-term illness
Over 14,000 live in fuel poverty
Given these statistics, we know that our current clients are only a fraction of those in need. We are desperately keen to ensure our services can not only continue but also grow.
How we work
Helplink is a local charity, established in 1995 in Heswall as a good neighbour scheme. As a small team now based in Irby, we coordinate just over 90 volunteers to help 750 clients across the Wirral. Over the past year, our wonderful volunteers have given 37,500 hours of time.
By working with volunteers, not only does the work of Helplink complement and support that of other organisations and agencies, but it also saves the Borough an estimated £375,000 in support staff costs.
