Age Concern expands to city

Age Concern Nelson Tasman has opened an additional office in central Nelson to expand its services to those who live in the city.

Manager Caroline Budge says the premises at 18 Bridge St, which opened last month, was only intended to be a “trial” to complement their main base in Richmond. However, it has proved so popular they have decided to commit to a 12-month lease.

“People have been telling us for years that we need to have a Nelson office, but we’ve always resisted because Richmond has always been a good central hub for us in the region,” she says.

“But given the demographic and the growing aging population, we decided that it’s a good time to have an office here.”

The city space was made available to the organisation through Make/Shift Spaces, an initiative that helps fill empty retail spaces with community groups, artists, and creatives.

“It’s a really good way of getting a foot in the door somewhere to see if it works, and we soon realised that we didn’t want to leave,” says Caroline.

“We have committed to being here for at least a year to give it a good chance to work. The space is fantastic - it’s a great location and right next to a car park and the bus station.”

Now they have secured the lease, Caroline says they will be working on a programme of activities.

“We will be replicating what we do in Richmond, in Nelson. Things like gentle exercise, morning teas, safer driving courses - to be able to open that up to new people will be great.”

She says while many people are “hunkering down” at home with the Covid-19 outbreak, they have had lots of people popping in.

“People are really pleased that we’re here. Some can’t drive or catch a bus and don’t have friends and family. It was a barrier for many and we’re all about removing barriers.”

Caroline says if people have any worries about Covid-19, isolating, or they are struggling, they can offer support.

“If anyone has any issues, we want them to get in touch so we can help them navigate that.”

They are open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9-2pm.