A former community support lead has called on North Wales residents to check on elderly neighbours, who are set to struggle this winter.
Lisa Goodier used to overlook Betsi Cadwaladr's community support hubs, which were set up during the pandemic to offer help to North Wales residents in a variety of different ways.
The hubs provide services such as heating support, legal advice and food support, there is one in Plas Madoc and one in Shotton.
The demand for which has had a huge increase over the last 12 months with the cost of living crisis.
The energy price cap has gone up, which will lead to households paying thousands of pounds in bills, while food prices and inflation are at an all-time high.
READ MORE: North Wales residents' financial worries leading to anxiety says community lead
With a daunting winter looming, Lisa is expecting the elderly to suffer the most.
She said: "Older people will struggle more later this year as what you often find is they won't come for help as they are too proud.
"Especially for those suffering with long-term conditions or illness, they will end up in the hospital and it will put more pressure on the NHS.
"They need the support ready for them when they are released, otherwise they'll end up being readmitted.
"It will also have a knock-on effect on the families who are trying to support them.
"If I could give one message it would be, to make sure you check on your elderly neighbours."
READ MORE:
- Average Wrexham household could spend thousands of pounds per year on energy from October
- Potential increase in energy prices 'really concerning' says community hub lead
Another aspect Lisa is concerned about is the ease of accessing support schemes from the Government, especially for the older generation.
She added: "People don't know what to do or where to go, it needs to be very clear for people, not dressed up in fancy words.
"It's very worrying for lots of people. What we've also found is many won't claim what they're entitled to.
"Again, a lot of older people are too proud to claim for the support they need and say things like 'it's better off other people having it'.
"The thing is, people don't get double if you don't claim. The grants and schemes are there for you and if you are eligible you must apply for them ahead of this winter."
To contact the Plas Madoc Hub call 01978 821600 or email info@plas-madoc.com
For Shotton, call 01352 702911 or email Claire.flint@flintshire.gov.uk or Ffion.williams@flintshire.gov.uk
For more information about the support hubs, visit https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/community-support-hubs/
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