Support available for Burton’s seniors and the infirm

If you are elderly or infirm, or you know someone who is, this list aims to help you find the support you need locally.

Do you know a useful local resource not on this list? If so, please drop a comment below with details. Equally, if you identify a need which the Burton community can help with, let us know.

Please share this information.

Keeping active

• Wiltshire Age UK has a list of social activities and sports for the over 50s.
• Wiltshire Leisure access all 20 leisure centres managed by Wiltshire Council. Find a membership to suit your needs, concessions for seniors, or pay as you go.
• Wiltshire Libraries offer a range of activities, including jigsaw puzzles and reading groups, suitable for seniors and those feeling isolated.
• The library comes to you: a mobile library service stops fortnightly at Long Leaze, Nettleton. You may be eligible for the home library service, enquire at your local library.
• Burton has a number of groups and clubs, including Creative Arts & Crafts, Flower Arranging, the Book Club and a regular village lunch.

IT support

• For basic help using your own device, you can drop in to your library where the friendly staff can assist.
• To find out more about using a smart phone, tablet or laptop book a one-to-one digital support appointment with the library.
• For more advanced help, you may need to attend a training course, such as those run by Wiltshire Family and Community Learning.
• Volunteers from AbilityNet provide free IT support to older people and people with disabilities of any age. They can visit you at home or help you remotely.  Call their helpline on 0800 048 7642.

Transport service

• Village Link provides transport for the elderly and/or infirm to attend medical or dental appointments, and for other needs. 

Supporting the elderly and infirm

• To support a neighbour, friend or relative who is either elderly or infirm, give them your time and presence.
• Ask if they need any help with tasks such as shopping, posting letters, picking up prescriptions and medicines, or dog-walking. Offer to accompany them or give them a lift to doctors’ appointments, the library, or hairdressers.
• Encourage and assist seniors to remain connected to their community.