The Leadership at Age UK Devon
Understanding who leads a charitable organization provides insight into its direction, values, and dedication to its cause. For Age UK Devon, that pivotal leadership role is held by Chief Executive, Sophie Littlewood. Her extensive history with the charity and long-standing commitment to the welfare of older people in the region have been instrumental in shaping the organisation's services and community impact.
Littlewood’s journey with Age UK Devon began much earlier than her appointment as CEO, giving her a deep, first-hand understanding of the charity's operations and the needs of the community it serves. This internal progression and wealth of experience demonstrate a continuity of leadership that fosters stability and long-term vision.
Sophie Littlewood: A Profile in Senior Care Leadership
Sophie Littlewood's professional background reveals a deep commitment to the sector. Her career with Age UK Devon began in 2000, where she started as the Human Resources Director / Deputy Director. This early experience in HR and senior management gave her a comprehensive overview of the charity’s internal workings and a solid foundation in team building and policy compliance.
In October 2013, she stepped into the role of Chief Executive, a position she has held for over a decade. As CEO, Littlewood has been responsible for leading the charity through changing and challenging times, expanding service offerings, and building new partnerships to enhance the charity's reach and impact. Her leadership approach is driven by integrity, transparency, and a dedication to the cause, ensuring Age UK Devon remains a trusted resource for the community.
Differentiating Age UK Devon from the National Charity
It is important to clarify the distinction between Age UK Devon and the national Age UK organization. Age UK Devon is an independent charity that works across the rural areas of Devon, including Torridge, West Devon, and East Devon. It operates independently but is part of the broader Age UK network. The CEO of the national Age UK is a different individual, Paul Farmer, who assumed his role in October 2022. This difference is key for anyone seeking specific information or services, as the local charities often have distinct offerings and leadership. For example, Age UK Exeter, Plymouth, and Torbay are also independent entities, each with their own leadership, and serve their specific localities.
The Scope of Age UK Devon's Services
Under Sophie Littlewood’s leadership, Age UK Devon has developed and expanded a diverse range of services to support older people in the region. These services are vital for improving well-being, reducing isolation, and providing essential assistance. The charity's offerings include:
- Information and Advice: Free, trained advisors offer information on everything from benefits and housing to care options and local activities.
- Enabling and Home Support: Services to help with everyday tasks like shopping, cleaning, and providing companionship.
- Community Activities and Events: A variety of activities, from lunch clubs and exercise classes to special events, designed to combat loneliness and encourage social interaction.
- Specialised Services: Recent initiatives include a scams awareness service to empower older people with the knowledge to reduce the risk of fraud.
Recent Activities and Community Impact
Age UK Devon is consistently engaged in community-facing initiatives. A recent example is the launch of a new scams awareness service, providing one-to-one advice sessions to help older residents stay safe. The charity has also actively promoted healthy living, such as through its walking tennis programme launched in Exmouth and Sidmouth.
Additionally, the organisation openly communicates about challenges and changes. For instance, the decision to postpone the annual Santa Run in Exmouth in 2024 due to planned repairs was communicated clearly by Sophie Littlewood, demonstrating the charity’s commitment to safety and transparency.
Comparison of Local vs. National Age UK Leadership
| Feature | Age UK Devon | Age UK (National) |
|---|---|---|
| CEO | Sophie Littlewood | Paul Farmer |
| Focus | Local, rural areas of Devon (e.g., Torridge, East Devon) | National scale, policy, and brand |
| Services | Direct services like home support, local activities, and scams awareness | National advice line, guides, and strategic initiatives |
| Structure | Independent local charity within the wider network | Overarching national organization |
How to Engage with Age UK Devon
For those who wish to support or engage with Age UK Devon, there are several avenues available. The organisation provides opportunities for volunteering, donations, and feedback, all of which are essential to its continued success. Volunteers are particularly vital in delivering services and providing support across the community.
- Contact the Office: For general enquiries, the main office can be reached by phone at 0333 241 2340 or via email at [email protected].
- Volunteer: The charity is often looking for volunteers to support its various programmes, including activities like walking tennis.
- Provide Feedback: The charity welcomes compliments, comments, and complaints, and details how to submit these in writing to the Chief Executive.
- Stay Informed: Follow their latest news and announcements on their website to learn about new services and local events.
The most authoritative source for information is their official website, accessible here: Age UK Devon.
Conclusion
In summary, Sophie Littlewood serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Age UK Devon, providing experienced and long-standing leadership to the local charity. Her dedicated career within the organisation, from her start in 2000 to her appointment as CEO in 2013, highlights a deep commitment to the welfare of older people in the region. Under her guidance, Age UK Devon continues to deliver a wide array of crucial services, from home support to scams awareness, addressing the unique challenges of the county’s ageing population. This local leadership is vital for tailoring support to the specific needs of the community and ensuring older people feel valued and connected.
