ELSA: Support Organisations
Helplines and support agencies
We understand that this survey contains sensitive topics. If you have been affected by any of the issues within this questionnaire, here is a list of helplines and support agencies that may help you:
- Age UK
Telephone befriending, in-person social groups, and local hubs for activities such as walking, arts, and crafts. Their “Call in Time” service connects older adults with volunteers for regular phone chats.
Online: www.ageuk.org.uk/contact-us/
Phone: 0800 055 6112 - The Silver Line
Free, confidential 24/7 helpline and a friendship service matching older people with volunteers for weekly phone conversations.
Online: www.thesilverline.org.uk/
Phone: 0800 470 8090 - U3A (University of the Third Age)
Learning groups and activities for those no longer in full-time employment, including classes, workshops, and events on topics such as photography and languages.
Online: https://www.u3a.org.uk/
Phone: 0208 466 6139 - Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer’s Society provides resources and recommendations for cognitive activities that can benefit all older adults. Programs like “Singing for the Brain” and other group activities promote cognitive engagement in a supportive setting.
Online: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/
Phone: 0333 150 3456 - Dementia UK
Resources and advice on cognitive-stimulating activities, including puzzles, reading, and memory exercises, to support mental agility.
Online: https://www.dementiauk.org/
Phone: 0800 888 6678 - Royal Voluntary Service (RVS)
Activity clubs offering games, quizzes, and learning groups to stimulate cognitive functions and encourage social interaction.
Online: www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/
Phone: 0330 555 0310 - Citizens Advice
General issues including benefits, housing, debt and consumer issues.
Online: citizensadvice.org.uk
Phone: 0800 144 8848 - Samaritans: Call the Samaritans for free, at any time, from any phone, on 116 123 if you are in emotional distress or struggling to cope
- Re-engage
Formerly known as Contact the Elderly. Volunteer-led activities such as regular tea parties for people over 75. Connect older adults with local volunteers who offer transportation and companionship, helping them build lasting connections in their communities.
Online: https://reengage.org.uk/
Phone: 0800 716543 - Meetup and Local Community Groups
While not exclusively for older adults, Meetup and other local community groups often organise interest-based activities like walking clubs, book clubs, and gardening groups. Joining such groups can provide meaningful social interactions with people who share similar interests.
Online: https://www.meetup.com/ - Men’s Sheds Association
Provides a community space, typically for older men, to socialise, work on projects, and connect with others in a relaxed environment. Activities vary from woodworking to DIY projects, offering a supportive community for those who may feel isolated.
Online: https://menssheds.org.uk/
Phone: 0300 772 9626 - Local libraries and community centres
Many local libraries and community centres offer book clubs, reading groups, and workshops that stimulate cognitive abilities. These groups allow older adults to participate in discussions, learn new topics, and engage in memory-strengthening activities. - Memory Cafés
These are community-based settings specifically designed for social and cognitive activities, especially for those at risk of cognitive decline. They provide a safe and engaging environment with activities like word games, storytelling, and music therapy.
You can find your local Memory Café here.