Age UK Staffordshire Branch Announces Closure Due to Financial Difficulties

The Staffordshire branch of a national charity dedicated to assisting older individuals has declared its closure, citing various financial difficulties. Age UK Staffordshire communicated via a website post that its operations ceased on Thursday 28 November, following a resolution by its board of trustees. The organization further stated that it had reached out to all individuals impacted by this development and was working to guarantee ongoing support for older people and their families within the region. The BBC has sought additional comment from the charity. Information from the branch’s official Facebook page indicates that this action encompassed the shutdown of its charity shops located in Longton and Stone. The organization previously offered day services to residents in Cannock, Lichfield, South Staffordshire, and Tamworth. Councillor Duncan Walker, who serves as the cabinet member for adult services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, expressed the authority’s regret regarding the announcement. The city council does not procure services from Age UK Staffordshire. “We will support those affected to access alternative services and advice – and contact details for other providers is available on our website,” he stated. He further mentioned that the authority would also provide assistance to staff members impacted by this development. Jeremy Pert, the cabinet member for health and social care at Staffordshire County Council, extended gratitude to the organization for its efforts and affirmed that the council would collaborate with Age UK to facilitate a seamless transition to alternative provisions. “Our priority now is to ensure alternative arrangements are put in place for our service users who currently access day opportunities from Age UK Staffordshire,” he commented.