New services from Age UK Tameside offer lifelines to over-50s across the borough

Age UK Tameside, the local charity dedicated to supporting residents over the age of 50, is expanding its services in exciting new directions from vital health support to skills development and social wellbeing.

We spoke with several members of the team to find out more about their new and revitalised services, and why they’re making such a difference in our community.

New Ear Wax Clinic helps locals hear clearly again

One of the most talked-about new services is the Ear Wax Removal Clinic, launched on April 1st.

Kate Potter, Community Engagement Worker at Age UK Tameside, explained:

“We’ve had fantastic five-star feedback. Shah, our new audiologist trained at the University of Manchester, uses the latest methods: thin probe, fine suction, or gentle pressure pulses to provide safe, effective earwax removal.”

At just £49 for both ears, the service has already improved quality of life for local residents.

“Hearing is such an important sense. People often think they’re going deaf when it’s actually just wax build-up,” said Kate. “It affects comfort, confidence, and can even lead to falls. So, this service is vital.”

Booking is easy residents can call 0161 308 5000, visit the website, or drop into the centre on Katherine Street in Ashton-under-Lyne.

Helping over-50s rejoin the workforce

Another important addition is the Employability Programme, a free four-week course designed to help older adults build the skills and confidence to return to work.

Led by new coach Sarah Lee, the course includes CV writing, job search support, interview prep, and access to volunteering placements to help build experience.

“A lot of people in their 50’s have been in the same job for 30 years and don’t know where to start,” Kate explained. “This course helps them get online, apply for jobs, and practice interviews even video ones. We also offer access to our IT suite for extra help.”

It’s available via self-referral through the Age UK Tameside website, phone, or by walking into the centre.

Falls Prevention Programme aims to keep residents on their feet

Melissa Bennett, the newly appointed Falls Prevention Coordinator, is already making a big impact with the eight-week Falls Prevention Course.

“Falls are a major cause of hospital admissions for older adults. We want to prevent them before they happen,” said Melissa. “The course includes education, home safety checks, and strength and balance exercises.”

The programme can be delivered at home, in the centre, or even within community groups and churches across Tameside.

“It’s all completely free,” she added. “We even go out to assess the home for trip hazards and help develop a personal plan.”

Referrals can come from GPs, health professionals, or be made directly by individuals or family members.

Monday Munchers: Good food, great company

Age UK Tameside’s Monday Munchers is proving to be a lifeline for those experiencing social isolation. Held every Monday from 11am–1:30pm at the centre, it’s a drop-in social group with quizzes, bingo, games, guest speakers, and a hot lunch, all for just £3.

Becky, the Be Well Team Leader, explained:

“People come for the food, but they leave with new friends. Some ladies even said it’s helped their mental health massively. It gives them a reason to get up and out of the house.”

Steph, a Be Well Worker told us how the group is growing: “13 people attended last week. I think we got like six one week, then seven and now 13 so numbers are increasing each week which is really great.”

There’s no need to book, just turn up, sign in, and enjoy.

A Place to Call Home: Support in the community

A Place to Call Home service offers one-to-one support in people’s own homes, helping them navigate everything from benefits advice and medical appointments to accessing adaptations, services, and social support.

Community Support Worker Gabby told us: “It’s about meeting people where they are. Some are housebound or anxious and don’t feel comfortable coming into the centre. By going to them, we can really see what’s going on and offer tailored help.”

The service takes a holistic view looking not just at physical needs, but emotional and social wellbeing, too.

Referrals can be made by calling the centre or via the website.

These services are so important for the local community. From tackling hearing loss to preventing hospital admissions, helping with job skills, or simply offering a warm meal and good company, Age UK Tameside’s growing array of services is responding to the real-life challenges faced by older residents.

“We want to keep people independent, healthy, happy—and connected,” said Kate. “There’s so much happening at Age UK Tameside. Whatever your need, we’re here.”

For more information or to access any of these services, contact Age UK Tameside on 0161 308 5000 or customerservice@ageuktameside.com, visit their centre on Katherine Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, or go to www.ageuk.org.uk/tameside/

Becky and Steph from the Be Well team at Age UK Tameside.