A WOMAN has praised a charity for looking after her father as she lives around 200 miles away.

Michael lives on his own in Barry and his daughter, Lesley, lives in Manchester - she felt 'a bit panicky and helpless' about his wellbeing early on in lockdown.

"Dad is quite happy with his own company, but not being able to get out once or twice to pick up groceries was a huge concern," said Lesley.

"I e-mailed Age Connects Cardiff & The Vale and was contacted the next day.

"I was so relieved when they told me that they could provide shopping for my dad - I can't tell you how much this has meant."

Age Connects still supports the family and, nine months on, if making 'an enormous difference' to their lives.

"Our shopping volunteer Angela is such a star," added Lesley.

"She does my dad’s weekly shop, which means he gets his essentials and I know that he won’t be forgotten.

"It’s hard to put into words how much this service means.

"For me to know that there is someone I can trust and rely on each week is an enormous relief. It’s like having a life jacket, providing support and keeping us afloat at such a worrying time."

Older people’s charity, Age Connects Cardiff & the Vale, has a long-standing commitment to supporting vulnerable and isolated older people living in our communities amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Its 'Vale shopping service' is a lifeline for many older members of the community, particularly those without family or friends to offer shopping support.

As Paula Hodge, Vale Shopping Service Project Manager, said: "The Vale Shopping Service has been a key part of our support for older members of our local communities since the pandemic first took hold.

"There is currently some perception that either the service is no longer available, or fully subscribed, but neither is the case. The service is still running and we currently have some capacity to take on additional clients who need this support.

"So, if you, a family member, friend or neighbour living in the Vale of Glamorgan needs assistance with shopping, please do get in touch.

"Our volunteers are friendly faces, keeping clients informed on events and services and providing peace of mind for family and friends who know that someone is looking out for their loved ones."

To access this service visit ageconnectscardiff.org.uk/services/shopping or call Paula on 07507 416875.