- Stagecoach North East is marking the International Day of Older People with new initiative
- The scheme will aim to collect warmer clothing to help older people this winter
- It will run across all the company’s North East depots in partnership with Age UK
Stagecoach North East are marking the International Day of Older People today by launching a new charitable initiative that will seek to spread the warmth this winter.
Employees at each of the region’s depots – Walkergate, Slatyford, Sunderland, South Shields, Stockton and Hartlepool – are being encouraged to donate items to help local older people to stay warm and well this winter.
The initiative is specifically targeting items such as:
- Clothing: gloves, mittens, scarves, hats (new/unworn items)
- Hot water bottles
- Hand warmers (microwaveable or otherwise)
- Throws/blankets
- Small flasks
- Non-perishable food/drink: including tins of soup, hot drink sachets, biscuits, bottled juice/cereals etc
The scheme is being run in partnership with Age UK, who will help with the distribution of the items once the collection ends at the end of the month.
Steve Walker, Managing Director for Stagecoach North East, said:
“As we get older, the long winter months can feel much harder, especially for older and more vulnerable members of society.
“As part of our partnership with Age UK, we’re asking colleagues for support, by donating one or two items that will benefit our local older people to stay warm and well and make this winter a little brighter.
“As a major local transport operator, we feel it’s vital that we go beyond mere service delivery and try to give back and contribute positively to the areas that we serve.”
Ian Wolstenholme, CEO of Age UK Gateshead, said:
“This winter, something as simple as a warm blanket, a pair of cosy socks, or gloves and hats can mean the world to an older person facing the cold alone.
“Thanks to the generous support of Stagecoach North East, every donation of warmth becomes a lifeline — wrapping local older people in care, comfort, and the reminder that they are not forgotten.
“As a charity rooted in our communities, we know just how important it is to feel a sense of belonging and to feel valued. This project not only shows people we care — it reminds them that they truly matter.”
Every year, October 1 is celebrated as the International Day of Older Persons. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges and opportunities of ageing. It is a day honouring the contributions of older persons to society and highlighting the importance of dignity, independence and inclusion.