But the charity said it would be extending its twice weekly frozen meal delivery service to three days to ensure older Islanders have more options to receive healthy meals should they choose to self isolate or are forced to because of a health condition.
The service currently operates every Monday and Thursday, dividing the Island east and west. From Monday the charity will also deliver on a Wednesday to whatever locations are required.
The extended service will be operated by both staff and volunteers, who can deliver a range of meals and desserts. Main meals currently cost £2.40 and desserts 80p.
The charity also has a small number of desktop freezers that can be offered out on free loan for the duration of the meal requirements.
Age Concern Jersey vice chairman Ben Shenton said: ‘This difficult decision to close our centre been taken in order to protect the wellbeing of our most vulnerable members of the community. We will however continue to staff our offices to offer general advice and support and will be extending the frequency of our frozen meal service to meet the likely increased demand for meals should older Islanders not feel up to leaving their homes. The coming months will prove very difficult for vulnerable older people as social isolation could easily spiral into depression.’
The Age Concern centre which will remain closed for the time being usually offers activities, classes, lunches, hairdressing and a visiting chiropodist service for senior citizens.
To use the frozen meal delivery service contact the offices of Age Concern Jersey on the freephone number 08007350345. To see the range of meals available visit ageconcern.je.
