Charities need your help as demand rockets for services provided by Age Concern Luton and CHUMS

Age Concern Luton and CHUMS are bearing the brunt of the coronavirus and both have launched appeals for more funding and donations from the public.
By Bev Creagh
Published 29th Apr 2020, 09:48 BST
Updated 29th Apr 2020, 10:01 BST
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ACL has seen the death rate rocket among the town’s elderly. Director Colette McKeaveney said: “Sadly we have had reports of 38 clients dying in a three week period between March 27 and April 15. Only one of these was a confirmed coronavirus case and most died in their own homes.

“This is an extraordinary and shocking number over such a time span. Our highest previously was 23 during a very cold winter some years ago.

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“And we have also lost two of our most loved and valued volunteers – Bob and Basil.

Colette McKeaveney of Age Concern LutonColette McKeaveney of Age Concern Luton
Colette McKeaveney of Age Concern Luton

“We’re still very much on the frontline with more than 100 new requests each week for support with shopping. Most of these are from people unable to pay for a variety of reasons – no cash, a son or daughter who handles their finances in hospital, the fear of letting someone use their debit card and so on.”

She added: “Demand for our services has never been higher but many of our volunteers are having to be shielded because they’re over 70.

“We are applying for relief from the Government for our closed charity shops and furloughed staff.”

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The charity is also asking the public to be generous with donations.

Sue Clarke, of Wrest Park, Silsoe-based CHUMS – which provides mental health and emotional wellbeing services for children and young people – said: “We urgently need additional funds to continue our life-changing support for those who have been traumatically bereaved, abused or self-harming, as well as those struggling with anxiety, low mood or with ASD.

“We can’t just furlough mental health. We can’t just furlough the support they need. CHUMS continues to support them via phone, skype and online.”

If you’d like to help Age Concern Luton, send a cheque made out to Age Concern Luton to Bradbury House, 389 King Street, Luton LU1 2DW or call 01582 456812.

If you’d like to support CHUMS, text CHUMS, the number and the amount to 70490. For example CHUMS 5 for £5, etc. Or donate online at https://chums.charitycheckout.co.uk/cf/chums-needs-you

Related topics:Luton