Sutton Council and Age UK Sutton team up to tackle loneliness and improve home safety

Sutton Council and Age UK Sutton have launched a new service to help Sutton residents stay safe, healthy and independent for longer.  

The new service, called Life Links, will connect residents to local social groups and provide free at-home safety assessments, fitting items such as grab rails and key safes. 

Life Links is built around two core programmes:

• Safe at Home: Trained assessors will visit residents' homes to recommend and help make practical changes, such as fitting grab rails, key safes, or improved lighting to prevent accidents and falls and make daily life easier.
• Active Lives: This programme will connect residents with local social groups and activities, from walking groups and yoga to lunch clubs and creative workshops. It aims to build confidence and overcome barriers like transport or cost, enabling residents to thrive within their community.

Councillor Marian James, Lead Member for Children and Adults, said: "We are thrilled to launch this vital new service in partnership with Age UK Sutton. This initiative directly addresses the critical issues of loneliness and home safety for our residents aged 50 and over. By taking small, proactive steps now, we can make a big impact on their health, wellbeing, and independence, ensuring they can thrive within their community for longer.”

Hilary Dodd, Acting CEO Age UK Sutton, said: “Age UK Sutton is delighted to be involved in providing the Life Links programme helping people live later life to the fullest by taking a proactive approach to staying connected, healthy, and safe within our local community.  Combining Safety in the Home with Active Lives, enabling access to the community, is vital to provide older or vulnerable residents with support and maintain improved connection and wellbeing, alongside safe and supported living.”

The service is accessible to all Sutton residents aged over 18, with a focus on those over 50 and individuals living with a disability or long-term health condition. 

Referrals can be made through social services, family or friends, hospital discharge services, health services, GPs, and other community agencies; alternatively people can refer themselves by calling 020 8078 0002 or via the Age UK Sutton website.