AGE UK Cheshire will be stepping up the support it gives to older people across the county during the current coronavirus pandemic after securing £25,000 in emergency funding.

The organisation approached the Steve Morgan Foundation for help, after a spike in demand coincided with a fall in funding as they were forced to close their shops because of coronavirus.

Philanthropist and businessman Steve Morgan immediately pledged to give £1m a week to charities and good causes across Cheshire, Merseyside and North Wales during the initial 12 weeks of Covid-19.

Dale Maskell, chief executive at Age UK Cheshire, said the help was crucial as an emergency information and advice line set up by the charity had received 200 calls in the first week.

These ranged from requests for help with food shopping and deliveries to assistance with medical supplies, benefits, energy and befriending.

“Over the past few weeks, we have experienced a huge leap in the demand for our support,” he said.

“Unfortunately, at the same time, key funding sources started to dry up as our shops and income-generating activities had to be temporarily shut down.

“These income streams fund the vital services that are currently in high demand, so the pressure really has been on to try and find alternative sources of funding and fast.

“We are so grateful to the Steve Morgan Foundation. It is wonderful to see so many amazing people supporting charities at this time of need.

“The money will allow us to continue to serve those that really need us, particularly those who are most vulnerable to this pandemic, who we will do all we can to support.”

Steve Morgan added: “We know that Covid-19 and the lockdown has caused real problems with isolation, anxiety and loneliness in older people across the UK, which is why the work of Age UK Cheshire in the county is so incredibly important.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to help them to continue to serve those that really need their help.”

Age UK Cheshire is undertaking well-being checks with everyone it has worked with recently, as well as supporting new people who have reached out for support during the crisis.

The charity has also extended its befriending service for those who would benefit from a regular phone call and launched an emergency coronavirus appeal to help cope with the continued increase in demand.

For details about the appeal, visit ageukcheshire.charitycheckout.co.uk or call the helpline on 01606 881660.