From Federation to Merger: The Journey to Age UK
Before the formation of Age UK, Age Concern was a federation of independent local charities, supported by Age Concern England. Another national charity, Help the Aged, also worked to support older people. In 2008, Age Concern England and Help the Aged announced plans to merge, completing the process in 2009 and launching the new Age UK brand in 2010.
The Age UK Brand and its Structure
The creation of Age UK aimed to unify national support for older people. This included establishing national charities for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (Age Scotland, Age Cymru, and Age NI). The national Age UK focuses on campaigning, policy, and information. It also has a commercial branch, Age Co, which generates funds for the charity.
The Role of Local Age UKs
Local Age Concern groups were not required to join the merger. Many chose to become independent brand partners of Age UK, operating as 'Age UK [Local Name]' (e.g., Age UK East Sussex). These local Age UKs remain independent charities, managing their own fundraising and services, which can vary by location.
Age Concern's Legacy and Continued Independence
Some local Age Concerns found the merger terms unsuitable and chose to remain independent, separate Age Concern charities. These independent Age Concerns, such as Age Concern Luton, continue their local work without affiliation to the national Age UK.
Comparison: Age UK vs. Age Concern
Here’s a comparison of the key differences between the national Age UK and the independent local Age Concern charities:
| Feature | National Age UK | Independent Local Age Concern |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Merger of Age Concern England and Help the Aged. | Remained independent post-merger. |
| Scope | National charity with central functions. | Independent, locally-focused charity. |
| Relationship | National body supporting local Age UK partners. | No affiliation with national Age UK. |
| Branding | Uses the Age UK brand. | Uses the Age Concern name. |
| Services | National advice and support for local partners. | Local, community-specific services. |
| Funding | National fundraising and Age Co profits. | Local fundraising. |
What This Means for People Seeking Support
For those seeking support, understanding the distinction is key. Local Age UKs are independent brand partners, and their services may differ from the national body. Independent Age Concerns are entirely separate from Age UK. To find the right support, research the specific local organisation. The national Age UK website has a postcode search for local Age UKs and their services. For independent Age Concerns, a local search is needed.
A Shared Mission, Diverse Paths
Both Age UK and independent Age Concern charities share the goal of supporting older people. Their differing structures reflect a choice between a unified national brand and local autonomy following the 2009 merger. This history helps clarify the roles of these important organisations.
To learn more, visit the official Age UK website.
