​We have launched our Surviving Winter Appeal for 2024 to raise vital funds to help vulnerable older people stay warm and well when the cold weather hits.

The campaign is now in its 14th year and has raised more than £1.5m so far. This has provided a lifeline for many thousands of people by helping them to stay safe and healthy in their own homes as the weather turns colder.

However, this year Surviving Winter has taken on even more importance as an estimated 90% of older people living in the county are due to lose the winter fuel payment following changes to government policy. This also means that we can no longer raise funds by asking people who do not need the payment to consider donating it to help others instead.

As a result, the need for your support is now even greater than ever. Many older people are extremely anxious about the high cost of energy and are having to make difficult choices between heating and eating every single day.  We are therefore appealing to anyone who feels able to donate to consider doing so and help us make a real difference to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.