Age UK Surrey Rewarded For Its Work With Elderly People

Published on: 9 Dec, 2015
Updated on: 9 Dec, 2015

A successful computer drop-in centre in Guildford for elderly people and run by Age UK Surrey has been recognised and given an award.

In fact, it is one of three awards made to Age UK Surrey by Surrey County Council in its Living and Ageing Well Awards 2015.

The Technology, Making a Difference Award has been made to the computer drop-in centre that is based at Dray Court in Madrid Road, which provides sheltered housing for people aged over 60 and which is run by Guildford Borough Council.

Learning computer skills at the drop-in centre at Dray Court.

From 10am to noon every day, a team of friendly, experienced volunteers are on hand to help improve people’s computer skills whether they be a complete beginner or someone with some computer knowledge. This is available to anyone over the age of 50.

They give guidance on how to find information on the internet, shopping online securely, sending and receiving emails, editing and manipulating photos, researching family history and will also advise on buying a computer or tablet, connecting to the internet and protecting a computer. Call 01483 452944, or send an email to: computerdropin@ageuksurrey.org.uk .

Catherine Jezierski receives her award from the chairman of Surrey County Council, Sally Marks.

The People’s Choice Award for outstanding paid member of staff has been made to Age UK Surrey’s Catherine Jezierski. She works within its information and advice team and and has obtained £770,000 in annualised benefits and backdated amounts for her clients. Catherine is known to be always cheerful and works really hard for her clients who love her.

Karen Relf pictured with the chairman of Surrey County Council, Sally Marks.

Another member of Age UK Surrey’s staff, Karen Relf, was highly commended for the Help at Home Award.

Age UK Surrey said: “Karen is a fabulous home help for our Hometime Service. She always shows empathy and compassion while providing a high quality service.”

A quote from one of Karen’s clients sums up her professionalism and caring nature: “Karen is a breath of fresh air. She is reliable, friendly, hard-working and nothing is too much trouble. I look forward to her visiting me every week.”

Another two of its services were shortlisted in the Living and Ageing Well Awards 2015. Its information and advice team for the Information and Advice Award, and its Tea & Chat in Tandridge project for the Bringing the Community Together Award.

The information and advice team have also been awarded AQS Information and Advice Quality Programme Certification, and between October 1 2014 and September 30 2015 obtained more than £3.5 million of annualised benefits for its clients.

Age UK Surrey knowns that combating loneliness and social isolation is vitally important and its Tea & Chat projet offers a truly convivial atmosphere and a place for older people who live in more rural areas to meet up, make friends and share a giggle and gossip.

Sue Zirps, the chief executive officer for Age UK Surrey, that has its offices in William Road, Guildford, said: “What fantastic projects and people we have in our organisation.

“I am so very proud and that includes all our staff and volunteers. It is testimony to all the work we do to help improve the lives of older people and to combat loneliness and social isolation. I believe everyone has the right to live and age well long past the tender age of 50.”

Click here for more details about services offered by Age UK Surrey, or telephone 01483 503414.