Day centres have become essential

Glasgow’s Golden Generation, a leading Glasgow charity for older adults is asking members of the public to donate as the mercury once more dips below 0°C.

The charity was founded in 1948, the same year as the NHS and is celebrating 75 years of supporting older adults in 2023.

GGG runs three day centres throughout Glasgow with the Fred Paton Day Centre in the west, Mattie Carwood Day Centre in the east and David Cargill Day Centre in the south of Glasgow but the cost of running these services is being impacted by the cost of living crisis as well.

The charity is hearing from its service users how difficult a winter it has been and with the energy cap set to rise, the situation will only get worse in coming months.

CEO of GGG Richard Donald said: “GGG launched a survey to find out from older adults in Glasgow directly, how the cost of living crisis is affecting them.

“The responses have made for grim reading with 85% indicating that they’re having to cut back on their energy consumption meaning spending time in cold homes and eating unheated food.

“Of those worried about money, many of them reported being afraid to turn on their heating or struggling to make ends meet from month to month.

“Whilst spring coming round should mean warmer weather, food costs are spiralling out of control and the cost of electricity is rising with the energy cap being lifted.

“GGG provides a crucial space with older adults enjoying a nutritious, high calorie three course meal, activities and social interaction in our day centres.

“Older adults can join us for the full day at the centres or get involved in our free digital cafés where a light lunch is also provided.

“Other services include Benefits Advice, a Careline, Befriending and Weekly Clubs run by older adults for older adults.

“As our energy bills triple, we’re asking for support so we can help more older adults this winter.”