Lee Trundle joins with Age Cymru West Glamorgan to surprise Swansea City fan Norman

Swansea City club ambassador Lee Trundle surprised life-long Swans fan and Age Cymru West Glamorgan service user Norman Chinnock by visiting his home last week.

Norman is one of more than 4,000 elderly people across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend who rely on the services provided by the charity.

These invaluable provisions range from finding funding to warm homes, providing meals, hosting people-centred support sessions and providing practical assistance for everyday challenges.

Unfortunately, due to the ongoing cost of living crisis, donations to Age Cymru West Glamorgan have dropped by 47 percent at a time when demands on the service are soaring. This could leave thousands of older people in the region left to choose between buying food or heating their homes this winter.

With the current funding not enough to enable them to respond to the unprecedented number of calls and requests for support, Age Cymru West Glamorgan is launching its first-ever emergency appeal.

As little as £30 could help provide specialist support to someone living with dementia.

Norman has been going through a difficult time and recently had his leg amputated, but he was delighted to meet Trundle and receive a shirt signed by the current Swansea City squad, as well as a warm pack donated by Swansea City AFC Foundation.

“He’s been through a tough time but it was great to sit with Norman and have a chat about The Vetch, and some of his memories of supporting the football club, and he’s been a long-time supporter of the Swans,” said Trundle.

“Everyone is struggling at the moment, but for donations to drop by almost 50 percent, that’s a massive hit for this charity.

“You’ve got older people who are having to make a decision between feeding themselves or putting the heating on. That shouldn’t be happening.

“We are looking for as many donations as possible, that's going to help people in the local area.”

There will be a bucket collection for Age Cymru West Glamorgan at Swansea City’s home match against Burnley on Monday, January 2 for any supporters who would like to donate. 

If you know an older person who may need support this winter, please get in touch with Swansea City AFC Foundation by emailing caroline@swansfoundation.org.uk.