Older people offered new online advice from local charity

Age Concern Stourbridge & Halesowen — the local charity supporting older people across the area — has launched a series of new advice webpages designed to complement its long‑established free advice service. 

These webpages provide easy‑to‑follow guidance for anyone looking for information, needing help with online forms, or wanting to stay up to date with changes in legislation affecting older people. 

Between 1 October 2024 and 30 September 2025, the charity’s volunteer advice team helped 166 residents secure more than £300,000 in benefits they were entitled to — a vital lifeline for many older people in Stourbridge and Halesowen. 

The free, confidential service is available to anyone aged 55 and over, offering support with: 

• Benefits entitlement, including Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payments
• Completion of forms
• Blue Badge applications
• Pensions/Pensions Credit
• Debt (referral service)
• Older person’s bus pass
• Care and support issues
• Housing
• Employment

 David Harbach, chair of trustees commented: “We hope these new webpages will empower local people to explore and understand their own issues where possible. This will allow our advice team to focus their time on those who struggle with online systems, form filling, or simply need someone to guide them through complex subjects. 

“Finding the right website or the correct page can be the hardest part for many older people — and we’ve now done that work for them. It’s easy to be directed to paid‑for ‘advice services’, but with our help, people can access the right information for free. 

“Our volunteers are invaluable. Their dedication ensures older people receive free, confidential support when they need it most. Anyone requiring assistance should call 01384 390065 to make an appointment at The Elton Centre. The team is available from 10am to 1pm, Monday to Friday.” 

Age Concern Stourbridge & Halesowen continues to be a lifeline for many older residents. Today, people are living longer, staying active, and seeking opportunities to enrich their later years. The charity provides not only advice and support, but also a wide range of events and activities at its welcoming, purpose‑designed building. 

The Elton Centre, located on St John’s Road, also features an in‑house café and rooms available for community use. 

To find out more, visit ageconcernsh.org.uk or call 01384 390065.