AGE Concern Suffolk is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee year and as part of the celebrations is holding a day care awareness month during February.Since Age Concern Suffolk was formed in 1948 the organisation has set up many support services for older people.

AGE Concern Suffolk is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee year and as part of the celebrations is holding a day care awareness month during February.

Since Age Concern Suffolk was formed in 1948 the organisation has set up many support services for older people.

One of the vital services is providing day care for those who are frail and vulnerable, and often very isolated, within our community.

The day care centres across Suffolk will be holding open days throughout February.

In Lowestoft Harry Chamberlain Court will be holding its open day on Tuesday, February 19.

The open days will be running from 10.30am to 2.30pm and people are welcome to visit.

Maureen Hammond, Age Concern Suffolk county day care services manager, said: “We are conscious that many older people value day care as a lifeline, particularly those who feel isolated.

“Day care is invaluable, especially as people become older and frailer.”

Age Concern Suffolk would like to encourage family carers, professionals, and anyone who is interested to see what takes place at its day centres.

“Come along and meet up with the staff, volunteers and members who will be happy to chat to you.

“There will also be information and help desks on other services we provide in Suffolk,” said Ms Hammond.

The services at Harry Chamberlain Court and other day centres are designed to improve or maintain quality of life, promote independence, introduce friendships, provide social contact and meet individual needs.

There are a few private places available to purchase at Harry Chamberlain Court and there are free “taster days” for prospective members to come along and see if the centre meets their needs.

For more information on private places contact Harry Chamberlain Court manager Ian Duncan on 01502 572906.

The service can also help carers by giving them a much-needed break for a few hours.

Businesses are also encouraged to help by sponsoring a place at the day centre or getting involved in fundraising for a supported place.

More information is available from fundraising officer Maggie James on 01473 298688.

Directory of Age Concern Suffolk Waveney services.

Help desk - 01502 586308

Benefits advice - 01449 674222

Home help - 01502 530981

Day centre - 01502 572906

Charity shop - 01502 538315

Befriending - 01502 539280

Independence Advisors - 01473 288048

Money matters - 01284 757740

Volunteering - 01473 298684

Donations - 01473 298688

E-mail: office@ageconcernsuffolk.org.uk

Web site: www.ageconcernsuffolk.org.uk