Appeal to donate Christmas gifts for Fenland's older people

Fenland District Council has teamed with Head to Toe, the official charity of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, which provides district nursing care for older people and those with long-term conditions, and the Trust's How Are You Fenland, which encourages people to get active, learn new skills and be creative.

The donations will be given out at the council's Christmas Golden Age event, where visitors can browse stalls about opportunities, services and support for over 60s and enjoy free entry and refreshments.

"Small gift we gave her would be her only present"

Cllr Sam Clark, Golden Age team leader, said: "Last year, one visitor at our Golden Age event told us the small gift we gave her would likely be her only present on Christmas Day.

"We know there'll be others in a similar situation and want to ensure our older people are not forgotten this Christmas.

"We've worked with partners to establish drop-off points for anyone who would like to donate a small gift to an older person this Christmas."

Golden Age event details

The free-to-attend Christmas Golden Age event takes place Friday, December 6, 10am to 1pm, at Hudson Leisure Centre, Harecroft Road, Wisbech, PE13 1RL.

It's open to anyone who is over 60 or has an interest in opportunities, services and support for the over 60s.

Around 25-30 organisations are expected to have a stand at the event where they'll provide information on what they offer. Organisations with stands might include those providing services related to finances, legal issues, carers, independent living, housing, volunteering, social activities, transport, wellbeing and more.

Everyone who attends can have a free drink and mince pie or cake.

They'll also be given a goodie bag and wrapped Christmas gift.

Any leftover donated Christmas gifts will be passed on to healthcare professionals in Fenland to pass on to vulnerable older people.

Present drop off points

Present drop off points are at:

• Wisbech, March, Chatteris and Whittlesey libraries,
• Tesco Extra, in Cromwell Road, Wisbech
• Tesco Superstore, in Hostmoor Avenue, March

New and unwrapped items accepted only. Suggested donations are:

• Chocolates / sweets / biscuits
• Gloves / hats / scarves
• Socks
• Small gifts such as diaries and mugs
• Toiletries

Donations will be accepted up to and including Tuesday, November 19.

Information on Golden Age events is available via: Golden Age