For gifts that give more this Christmas, visit the Age UK Polegate shop and help support older people facing loneliness

With Christmas fast approaching, the Age UK shop in Polegate is encouraging local people to pop in to discover festive finds and sustainable bargains that do more than make the season sparkle.  

 Whether you're filling stockings, ticking off your gift list or looking to sleigh the festive season in style, every purchase is a gift that gives more. From toys, books, homeware, decorations, as well as a fantastic selection of pre-loved partywear and glittering accessories, the shop is packed with items set to bring joy to not only your nearest and dearest, but older people who may be experiencing loneliness this Christmas.  

 In a season of togetherness, far too many older people feel lonely and disconnected. In fact, 900,000 people over 65 say they feel forgotten about at Christmas. Age UK shops, like the one in Polegate, help to raise funds so that the Charity can be there to support older people who have no one else.  

 Every item purchased from Age UK shops helps fund vital services, including the Charity’s Telephone Friendship Service, free and confidential Advice Line, and The Silver Line Helpline, which offer friendship, support and advice to those who are struggling during the festive season and beyond.  

 Shopping at Age UK’s charity shops also ensures pre-loved items have a place under the tree, instead of letting them go to waste. So far this year, donations to the Charity's shops have prevented 2.7million kilos of items from going to landfill and saved 26 million kilos of CO₂e. 

 The Age UK Polegate shop is also asking the public to donate any unwanted, quality items they no longer need. By signing up to Gift Aid when donating, supporters can make their donations worth an extra 25% to Age UK at no extra cost to themselves. 

 Age UK has more than 270 shops across England and Wales. To find your nearest Age UK shop, visit Christmas shopping with Age UK here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/services/charity-shops/christmas-shopping-with-age-uk/ For those who prefer to shop online, thousands of unique items and festive gifts are also available through the Age UK eBay Shop. 

 People can also purchase one of the Charity’s Mystery Boxes, available from its eBay page. With prices starting at just £15 the Mystery Boxes contain a mix of brand-new items including branded beauty products, stocking fillers and gifts such as candles, books and socks, with money raised going towards the Charity’s work supporting older people.  

 Age UK's goal is for every older person to stay connected and supported, but the Charity needs donations to make this happen. This Christmas the Charity is calling for help to ensure lonely older people get the support they deserve. Whether that’s shopping in or donating quality items to an Age UK shop, giving a little time as a volunteer, or donating to the Charity, every contribution helps Age UK make this possible.  To find out more visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/appeal