Age Connects North Wales Central (ACNWC) has announced the deeply difficult decision to close after 33 years of dedicated service to older people across Conwy and Denbighshire.

The charity, which has played a vital role in supporting thousands of older people since its formation, has faced increasing financial pressures in recent years. Rising operational costs combined with declining income ultimately left the organisation no longer financially viable, despite every effort being made to explore alternative delivery models and potential solutions.

The trustees described the decision as one of the most difficult in the charity’s long history. Alison Price, Chief Officer at Age Connects North Wales Central, said: “We are incredibly proud of the work Age Connects North Wales Central has delivered over the past three decades and the positive impact that is has had on local older people. Closing the charity has been a heart breaking decision for everyone involved, but the financial challenges were simply too great to overcome. Our priority has been to safeguard staff employment wherever possible and ensure older people continue to receive the accessible support they need.”

Dean Richards, Chairperson of Age Connects Wales, also expressed deep sadness at the closure, while recognising the extraordinary commitment shown by the charity’s trustees, staff and volunteers: “We are extremely disappointed to see Age Connects North Wales Central close after so many years of exceptional service to older people. We know the team has done absolutely everything within their power to continue operating in incredibly difficult circumstances. It has been inspiring to see their ongoing commitment and compassion during such a challenging and emotional time, doing all they can to ensure local older people continue to receive the support they depend on.”

In a positive step, the organisation has been able to transfer nine staff members to other organisations, protecting jobs and helping sustain the expertise and relationships that have been built over many years.

Through strong partnership working within the Age Connects Wales network, several key services will continue to be delivered for older people across the region. Age Connects North East Wales, one of the network’s partner organisations, will step in to continue providing vital information and advice for Denbighshire and Conwy and Community Navigator services for the communities of Conwy. Age Connects North Wales Central’s Homelife Services will continue to operate independently, ensuring the seamless delivery of existing services with minimum disruption.

These arrangements ensure that older people who rely on support, especially those who may be isolated, vulnerable, or navigating complex life circumstances, will still have access to trusted, high‑quality services during and after the transition.

The closure highlights the increasing pressures facing charities across Wales, particularly those supporting older people. Many organisations are continuing to deal with rising demand, inflationary cost increases, and reduced funding streams.

Age Connects North Wales Central’s trustees and senior management expressed thanks to staff, volunteers, partners, funders and the wider community for their support and dedication over the past 33 years.

Tony Latham, Chair of Trustees: “Although this marks the end of an era, we take comfort in knowing that many of our staff will continue to support older people in the region, and that key services will carry on through our partners. We remain immensely grateful to everyone who has supported us throughout our journey.”

Age Connects North East Wales

Tel: 01352 753728

Email: info@ageconnectsnewales.org.uk

Web: ageconnectsnewales.org.uk

Home Life Project

Email: enquiry@homelife.wales

Tel: 01745 421552

Testimonials

Thank you very, very much for your visit to us here yesterday.

Heart felt thanks for all your work.

Thank you for all that you do. I'm glad we still have you as a contact.

You changed my life.

Yes you gave me peace of mind, taking away my worries.

What a wonderful, informative, and interesting newsletter.

Immaculate service, helpful and so much patience, you deserve a medal!

Thank you, you've given me lot of help and information - I'm glad I phoned you.

Thank you so much for my lovely goodie bag.