Hampshire-based organization, Age Concern, has decided to extend their partnership with SNG in order to address the issue of social isolation among older individuals.

Age Concern Hampshire, a charity dedicated to supporting older people in Hampshire, is pleased to announce its continued partnership with SNG (Sovereign Network Group) in delivering social groups aimed at reducing social isolation and improving wellbeing among older people in the Basingstoke, Overton, Whitchurch, Fordingbridge, and Totton areas.

Through this partnership, Age Concern Hampshire will run a range of social groups that provide a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for older people to connect, socialize, and build lasting friendships. These groups focus on physical and mental wellbeing, providing opportunities for participants to try new activities, such as gentle exercise and creative workshops, while also enjoying companionship in a supportive and friendly setting.

The social groups are open to all older people in the local community, as well as residents of housing schemes, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate, enjoy the activities, and build connections across the wider community.

According to Brogan Rehill, Head of Fundraising and Volunteer Services at Age Concern Hampshire, social isolation remains a major issue for older people. Many experience loneliness due to factors such as reduced mobility, limited transportation options, or the loss of loved ones. By joining these social groups, older people can stay active, try new activities, and enjoy companionship in a supportive and friendly environment.

Rehill also emphasized the importance of partnerships in reaching those who may otherwise be left behind. “Tackling loneliness and isolation remains at the heart of what we do, and partnerships like this allow us to reach those who might otherwise be left behind,” she said. “We’d love to expand this model to more supported housing schemes for older people across Hampshire, where around 12% of residents aged 65 and over live in similar settings. By working together, we can ensure even more people benefit from connection, companionship, and a sense of belonging.”

Stevie Chadwick, Community Investment & Partnership Manager at SNG, expressed pride in the partnership and its impact on the lives of customers. “At SNG, we’re committed to supporting our communities to live well and thrive,” Chadwick said. “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Age Concern Hampshire, whose groups are making a real difference to the lives of our customers. The positive feedback we’ve received from customers has been incredibly heartening; these sessions support them to feel healthier and more connected. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact that meaningful connection and community support can have on wellbeing.”

This partnership is just one of the ways in which Age Concern Hampshire works to support older people through social groups, volunteer-led programs, and community initiatives that promote wellbeing and connection across the county.

For more information about Age Concern Hampshire and its services, please visit their website or contact Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager, at marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk. For media-related inquiries, please contact SNG at press.office@sng.org.uk.