No one should have no one this Christmas

Loneliness is one of the biggest issues facing older people in Northern Ireland today with 1 in 3 older people saying that they feel lonely. That’s why Falls Pharmacy Cookstown is supporting Age NI’s No one should have no one at Christmas appeal.

Niall Falls, Pharmacy owner, commented, ‘Having someone to turn to, at any age, is important to us all. We see the impact of loneliness on older people all too often in our pharmacy. It can pose a risk to both physical and mental health and well-being. That’s why we are supporting Age NI’s No one should have no one at Christmas appeal. We are encouraging people to look out for older family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are not feeling lonely, particularly during the colder, darker winter days.

‘When you visit our pharmacy, you can get involved in the appeal in lots of ways. Make a donation to the charity’s collection box, or pick up a packet of Age NI Reindeer Food to sprinkle on the lawn for Santa’s helpers for just £1 and you will be helping the charity to support older people facing Christmas alone. You can also find details of the Age NI Advice Service which helps more than 10,500 older people every year. Pick up an Age NI Advice Card at our counter and pass it on to someone you think may need the charity’s help.’

Linda Robinson, Age NI Chief Executive added, ‘As Charity Partner of the Ulster Chemists’ Association, we are delighted that pharmacy associates are supporting our appeal to tackle loneliness. With the help of Falls Pharmacy we can all make sure that older people in our lives have someone to go to for help, support, or for a chat this Christmas. No one should have no one in our society.’

Visit www.ageni.org/noone for more information about the Age NI appeal.