A good news story!

WE recently received a letter of thanks from Mr and Mrs Smith* a couple who we helped to repatriate to the UK.

They first contacted SSAFA Forces Help UK who directed them to us here in Spain.

Mr and Mrs Smith had been living in the Alicante region for around three years. During this time Mr Smith ‘s health had deteriorated and despite trying their best they found that they could no longer cope which is when they turned to us for help.

Our volunteer caseworker helped them look at all of the options available. After making the hard decision to go back to the UK our caseworker helped them by linking them in with various charities.

After spending stressful weeks living out of suitcases in the homes of family members, the local authority managed to provide Mr and Mrs Smith with sheltered accommodation. They say that they have a lovely housing manager and that the other residents are really nice full of fun and vary in age.

Once they were back in the UK, due to Mr Smith‘s army background, they received financial help from SSAFA and the two regiments in which he served.

Also, having worked within hospitality in the UK benevolent organisation Hospitality in Action gave them a fridge/freezer. Much to his surprise and delight they also sent Mr Smith a bouquet of flowers and some chocolates for his 85th birthday!
Mr and Mrs Smith wanted to send a special message of thanks to the caseworker who helped them so much whilst they were in Spain.

Meanwhile, Age Concern Accion Social y Asistencial (ACASA) has beeen invited to become a Foundation Member of the British Chamber of Commerce Spain (BCCS). At a recent event in Marbella, Jennie Thompson Vice President for the BCCS Andalucia, presented me  with a cheque for over €1,600 for ACASA raised from this event and a Golf Tournament held earlier in the year.

Judy Arnold-Boakes, President of ACASA, said “That the support that the BCC of Spain has shown ACASA had been incredible. The funds that they have raised will make a huge difference to those older British nationals in Spain that need our help.”

ACASA would like to thank the staff, parents and children of King’s College, the British School of Alicante who raised €500 to help us to provide a specialist service for older people and those with a services background.”

* Name changed to protect their identity 

By Sarah Rogers
Country Manager of ACASA