Thanks to people who leave gifts in Wills, George isn’t alone at 105 years old

When George, who is 105 and lives alone with limited social contact, was matched with Claire through Age Concern Epsom & Ewell in 2023, neither of them could have imagined how meaningful their connection would become. But it’s thanks to the kindness of those who left a gift in their Will that this life-enhancing connection was even possible.

George has lived a full life. Born in Battersea in 1920, George would go on to serve as a signaller in the Royal Artillery in the second world war - operating in North Africa and then Italy, where he was stationed when the war ended in 1945. The next year, George would marry his beloved Florence – though everyone called her Pat.

George describes how “I’ve seen the world change in extraordinary ways, but at this stage in life, things do slow down. Having people around you becomes more important than ever.” 

George first contacted Age Concern Epsom back in 2009 and started using their befriending service in more recent years – this service was made possible thanks to those people who included gifts to the charity in their Wills. George “matched” with Claire in 2023, and their regular visits began soon after.
Age Concern Epsom & Ewell’s befriending service provides companionship and emotional support to older people who may be feeling lonely or isolated. Volunteers like Claire are carefully matched with individuals like George based on shared interests or backgrounds, and they build relationships through regular home visits and friendly chats.

“What started as a simple weekly visit has grown into a real friendship”, George describes.  “At 105, I still live independently in my own home, and I try to keep a routine that keeps me active and in touch with people—but Claire’s visits have brought something really special.”

Each week, Claire brings joy and companionship to George, as well as helping George out with a few practical tasks, such as his shopping lists. Their conversations are filled with laughter, shared stories, and affection —reminding both of them of the power of human connection. George always has fascinating tales to share, making their time together something special.

"Claire’s visits bring a real spark to my week. We laugh, we chat, and it’s just lovely to have someone to share life’s stories with", George describes. Claire shares George’s enthusiasm for their time together, saying "George is such a character, full of mischief and fun. Spending time with him is so rewarding - we're always learning something from each other."

What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a genuine friendship that enriches both of their lives. George gradually became comfortable sharing aspects of his life with Claire that he had rarely spoken about before.

“Claire and I were talking about life during the war ... I shared something I hadn’t spoken about in years. She listened so kindly—it really moved me. That conversation reminded me how powerful it is to be truly heard.”

When reflecting on the support he receives, George says “To me, Age Concern Epsom & Ewell is more than a charity. They didn’t just offer help—they brought connection and companionship into my life. I hold them in the highest regard.”

Befriending is just one of the many services Age Concern Epsom & Ewell provides to support older people in the borough. They also offer a wide range of support, including information and advice, home visiting, medical transport, and social activities—helping older people live fulfilling lives by promoting independence, wellbeing, and social connection.

As an independent charity, Age Concern Epsom & Ewell is funded through the generosity of their supporters. Gifts in Wills allow them to continue providing vital services like befriending. Every donation stays within the local community, and without the compassion, kindness, and legacy of their supporters, Age Concern Epsom & Ewell simply couldn’t continue its work.