WITH the election approaching, sadly there does not seem to be much on offer or to look forward to for older people with increasing needs. They may well be facing a future fearful of the costs and accessibility of vital support.

The role of the voluntary sector is therefore developing into even more of a vital life-line.

Partnerships and collaborations of local voluntary organisations must therefore be the safety net, and perhaps the only way forward for some.

One such collaboration that has begun to evolve is that of our local Red Cross as they develop new, exciting and different support services, and Age UK York.

Age UK York will offer an ongoing shopping and transport service as we take over the two Red Cross minibuses on June 5.

Joined with our own three vehicles our exciting development will be the provision of journeys for people to attend our Day Clubs, help with shopping trips and help with appointments, wherever we can.

We have been able to undertake this enterprise as an extension of our tried and tested Home from Hospital service, which has been running out of York Hospital for nearly 50 years.

If anyone wishes to know more and would like to volunteer or is interested in paid work, we are having an open day at the Priory Street Centre tomorrow (Friday, May 26) from 1pm to 4pm.

Have a look at both the Age UK York and the Red Cross websites for up to date information about how these organisations will endeavour to continue to be the safety net and support network for our local people of all ages.

Sally Hutchinson, Age UK York