14 May 2008
The Government has recognised the plight of ‘young olds’ in its Places for Change funding programme. The local authority in Lambeth has now been given funding for a project helping these vulnerable men and women.
Thames Reach coined the term ‘young olds’ to describe middle aged, former rough sleepers who have the debilitating health problems more common among pensioners, These include heart and liver disease, brain damage, poor mobility, loss of memory and incontinence.
Yet, because of their age, these men and women are unable to access the services available to older people.
'Young olds' are therefore often stuck in unsuitable accommodation such as short-term hostels, which can't provide the level of ongoing support they need.
Jeremy Swain, Thames Reach Chief Executive, said: "We were delighted that Lambeth was successful with its application to develop a ‘young olds’ project.
"We have been actively campaigning to draw attention to the plight of men and women in their forties and fifties who have health problems more commonly associated with people twenty years older. It is impressive that Lambeth has accepted our case and sought resources to address their needs."
Read more on Thames Reach's 'young olds' campaign.
