Funding from the Community Investment Board has allowed Age Concern Southend to continue vital befriending services, which include telephone, face-to-face and group services, supporting around 160 clients.

The funding has also allowed the Age Concern Southend team to attend a range of networking events across the city, including Southend Pride, where they launched our new ‘Proud Conversations’ group targeted at the local LGBTQ+ community.

They have also launched their first Satellite Group Befriending session, held in Shoeburyness which will continue to grow in 2026.

Sarah Wilson, CEO at Age Concern Southend said, “We are so grateful for the support from the CIB to continue and grow these all important services.”