Stress, anxiety and depression are particularly prevalent among the deaf and deaf/blind community and the Ageing Well Together centre matches clients with volunteers who help to identify problems.
Alison Gowman, chair of the City Bridge Trust Committee, said JDA offered a “much-needed service to older British Sign Language users, who often struggle to engage with mainstream welfare services. The charity provides a vital resource that reduces isolation and exclusion, improves physical and mental health and is often a lifeline.”
Welcoming the award, service user Brenda Sterne said: “While JDA is here for everyone with hearing loss, this grant will benefit our most vulnerable clients. Many are seriously and additionally disadvantaged by restricted mobility or learning difficulties, with some suffering from dementia. Without JDA’s help, they would lead lonely lives, remaining marginalised and unable to access vital information, services and support.”
City Bridge Trust is London’s biggest independent grant-giver, distributing £20 million annually to tackle disadvantage across the capital.
