THE Age UK Mid Devon charity is urging older people who are feeling isolated or lonely this winter to find out about its befriending services.

With over one million older people in the UK saying they often or always feel lonely and isolated, loneliness is a huge issue affecting the UK’s ageing population, made even harder with cold winter conditions.

Age UK saysd almost two million people worry about not being able to go out as much in winter because of shorter, darker days and poor weather.

Age UK Mid Devon runs a volunteer visiting service and other social activities which help to reduce isolation and loneliness.

The VVS offers older people a trustworthy regular visitor.

Trained volunteers, matched with older people through sha-red interests, visit them every two weeks to talk about anything they have in common.

They also help the older person find local support networks in the longer term.

Debbie Westlake, Age UK Mid Devon chief officer, said: “Redu-cing loneliness and isolation among older people in our community is central to our work.

“We know our VVS makes a difference, particularly on dark, cold winter days, and urge anyone feeling lonely to get in touch.”

“If anyone is worried about an older person this winter or wants to volunteer with us, call Age UK Mid Devon on 01884-242052 – the lines are open from 8am to 7pm, seven days a week.

For more information visit www.ageukmiddevon.org.uk