MEET KGH'S GOVERNORS: Take part in survey to help Age UK Northamptonshire improve its services, urges nominated governor

One of KGH's governors is urging people to take part in a survey to help Age UK Northamptonshire improve the services it provides.

The governors at KGH have teamed up with the Northants Telegraph to give our readers an insight into their role and the work they do.

Sue Watts, business development director for Age UK Northamptonshire and nominated Governor at KGH, has written the latest in a series of pieces about the governors which we will be bringing to you in the coming weeks.

Her second article in a series of three is about Age UK Northamptonshire.

Sue told the Northants Telegraph: "Whilst we are all delighted that the government has agreed a programme for coming out of lockdown, the reality is that for some families the lifting of restrictions is going to result in other problems.

"Many older and vulnerable people have not been able to meet with family and friends for over 12 months and as such, they have lived their lives in isolation.

"Sadly, some have lost confidence, becoming more needy and dependent.

"With the lifting of lockdown there will be people who will find it difficult to re-engage with the wider community and perhaps need more support from family members than they did prior to lockdown.

"This could be problematic because some family members will, in many cases, still be in the workplace and not have the time to give the support needed but, without that support, those coming out of shielding will continue to struggle.

"Others may not be natural carers and so unable to provide the type of assistance that may be required such as personal care, or with more practical tasks such as cleaning or gardening.

"To help us in adapting our existing services or developing new services, we would be grateful if you, as an older person, or as a family member or friend could spend a few minutes completing our survey online here."

To request a paper copy of the survey contact Age UK Northamptonshire, The William and Patricia Venton Centre, York Road, Northampton, NN1 5QJ.

You can also call 01604 611200 or email [email protected].

To read the previous piece from Sue about Age UK Northamptonshire, click here.

And if you have a question for the KGH governors, email it to [email protected].