Norfolk chef becomes patron of resource on aging

All-round Norfolk Champion and award-winning Woodfordes Tap chef Charlie Hodson is taking on a new role this year as patron for Age Space Norfolk – an online social enterprise sharing information and advice for anyone with concerns about, or caring for an ageing parent or relative, neighbour or friend.

A subject close to his heart, Charlie is keen to raise awareness of the support needed for families who are increasingly taking on the responsibility of looking after parents in their later life.

He said: 'People are living longer which is something to celebrate, however the reality is that the system is struggling to cope. Often families are dispersed across the country and simply don't know where to turn when faced with organising care.'

'Age Space Norfolk is a great resource which brings all the information and advice together in one place such as dementia advice and services, technology to help aid independent living, legal, financial and care support.

'For people with busy lives, this helps them to navigate a minefield of information in what ultimately is a stressful and emotional time.'

Age Space launched in 2016 and founder Annabel James said: 'Whether you're facing an immediate crisis, or are just beginning to worry, at its heart Age Space is a friendly online conversation space where anyone can ask a question or find the answer to something of concern.

'I started Age Space as a result of my own experience. When my mum had a stroke and spent many weeks in hospital we were all overwhelmed by the situation – finding it hard to know what to do for the best for her, and for my dad. I didn't know what questions to ask, where to find the answers or what to do next. As I finally started talking with friends and colleagues I realised that there were lots of us at this age and stage – juggling work, families, distance and trying to do the right thing.'

Age Space Norfolk was the first regional site to be launched in September 2016 and the enterprise aims to have a network of regional sites signposting to local information and support across the country by 2020.

Regional manager, Helen Burgess said: 'We are keen to embrace the positives of growing old and with Charlie's support we are really excited to be bringing some new areas to the website which will be focusing on diet, nutrition, travel and leisure.

'Charlie is a wonderful ambassador for Norfolk and we are delighted to have him on board. As one of the driving forces behind #Norfolk Day in July, Age Space will be getting involved by sharing lots of advice on great places to take your parents to eat and visit in our wonderful county.'