Community

Age UK urges older people to protect their health with winter vaccines

Published

12 months ago

December 17, 2024

AGE UK is urging older people to safeguard their health this winter by taking up the COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines as soon as they become eligible.

The rollout of the 2024 winter vaccination programme comes as hospital admissions for respiratory illnesses rise sharply, particularly among older age groups. The charity warns that failing to get vaccinated could leave those most vulnerable at serious risk as the colder months approach.

Sharp rise in RSV cases
The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows a dramatic increase in hospital admissions for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) among older people. Between October and November 2024, RSV admissions for the 65-74 age group surged from 0.3 to 2.92 per 100,000 patients. For those aged 75-84, the rate climbed from 0.5 to 5.95 per 100,000 patients, while for people aged 85 and above, rates soared from 1.27 to 14.05.

RSV can cause symptoms similar to a cold, but for older people, it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis. This year, for the first time, the NHS is offering an RSV vaccine to adults turning 75 on or after September 1, alongside a catch-up campaign for those aged 75-79 by August 31.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines remain vital
Age UK emphasised that the COVID-19 and flu vaccines remain crucial tools in preventing serious illness. According to UKHSA surveillance reports, those aged 85 and above had the highest hospital admission rates for flu between December 2023 and May 2024, followed closely by those aged 75-84.

While flu vaccine uptake has been lower this season compared to last year, studies show it remains effective, reducing hospitalisation rates by up to 30% in those aged 65 and above.

Charity Director calls for action
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK, said: “This winter is shaping up to be another challenging one for older people, with concerns about keeping warm, rising food costs, and changes to the Winter Fuel Payment. However, one practical step we can all take is having the vaccines we’re offered to reduce the risk of serious illness.

“Alongside getting vaccinated, older people can stay healthier by managing long-term conditions, eating well, keeping warm, and washing hands regularly. These small steps can make a big difference.”

How to book your vaccines
The flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be booked via the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119 for free. Some people will also be contacted by their GP practice. The RSV vaccine, however, will be offered separately, with eligible patients being invited directly by their GP.

Ms Abrahams added: “If you’re eligible for any of these vaccines, I urge you to take up the opportunity. Protecting yourself now could make all the difference this winter.”

Age UK acknowledges that some older people may feel frustrated if they are not currently eligible for the RSV vaccine, but the charity remains hopeful that eligibility will expand in the future.

For more information, visit the NHS website or speak to your GP.

Community

Narbelles WI support Food Bank with festive donation

Published

16 hours ago

December 14, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Group marks December meeting with charity collection and Christmas celebrations

NARBELLES WI rounded off the year with a festive December meeting featuring a bring-and-share buffet, party games and a Secret Santa gift exchange.

Members also used the occasion to support families in need across the county, collecting food items and presenting a £120 cheque to Ann Watling from Pembrokeshire Food Bank. The donation represents the proceeds of the group’s bucket collection during Narberth Civic Week 2024.

A spokesperson for the WI said the group was delighted to finish the year “with fun, friendship and a chance to give something back to the community.”

(Photo: Narbelles WI members presenting the cheque to Ann Watling, Pembrokeshire Food Bank.)

Community

Annual charity carol service raises funds for good causes

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service held its annual Charity Carol Service on Wednesday (Dec 10) at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel in Crymych.

The event brought together members of the local community alongside Fire Service staff for an evening of carols, readings and festive refreshments, marking the Christmas season in a warm and inclusive atmosphere.

This year’s service supported two important charities — the Fire Fighters Charity and Cancer Research Wales — with all proceeds going directly towards their ongoing work.

A total of £597 was raised on the night, which will be shared equally between the two charities.

The Service thanked the congregation at Ebeneser Baptist Chapel for hosting the event, as well as everyone who gave their time, support and generosity to make the evening such a success.

Community

3 Amigos toy bike run under way across Pembrokeshire

Published

2 days ago

December 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Castle Inn fun runners back festive charity event

THE ANNUAL 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run is under way this afternoon (Saturday), with hundreds of motorcyclists setting off from Pembroke to raise funds for children’s services.

Riders gathered at The Commons car park in Pembroke from around midday before departing shortly after 1:00pm. The festive convoy is travelling along its traditional route, taking in Pembroke Dock and continuing through parts of the county including Neyland, Milford Haven and Haverfordwest.

The event is organised by the 3 Amigos and Dollies Motorcycle Group and has become a much-anticipated Christmas tradition in west Wales, with toys and donations collected for children receiving care within the Hywel Dda University Health Board area.

Also supporting the event are fun runners from the Castle Inn in Pembroke, who have been fundraising in aid of the 3 Amigos. The group are pictured alongside participants from today’s run.

The 3 Amigos have been raising funds for children’s wards and health charities for more than twenty-five years, with their Easter and Christmas events continuing to make a positive difference to young patients and their families.

Organisers have thanked the public for their support and asked road users to be mindful of the large convoy as it passes through towns and villages this afternoon.

Photo caption:
Festive fundraising: Fun runners from the Castle Inn, Pembroke, pictured supporting the 3 Amigos Christmas toy bike run (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald)