There are many services across the UK designed to help people live well, stay connected, and plan confidently — even without close family nearby. With a little preparation, you can build a supportive network around you and maintain your independence for years to come.
Here’s where to start:
👥 Building Social Connections and Community
Meetup and u3a (University of the Third Age)
Perfect for finding local interest groups, social activities, and learning opportunities. Great for building informal networks and keeping life vibrant and connected.
Runs befriending services and local activity groups for older people who live alone — a lovely way to meet new friends and feel part of a community.
The Silver Line – 0800 4 70 80 90
A free, 24/7 confidential helpline offering conversation, friendship, and practical support for older adults.
Offers emotional support by phone or email for older adults feeling isolated or worried about the future.
A UK charity dedicated to people ageing without children. Offers webinars, articles, and a community of others in the same position.
Health & Independent Living Support (HILS)
Provides practical home support such as meals, wellbeing checks, and social visits — helping older people live safely and independently at home [Hertfordshire, West Sussex, Hampshire, and Bedfordshire.]
🏠 Housing and Daily Living Support
Connects older adults with approved carers who share their home and offer personalised support. A family-style arrangement that brings companionship and security for those without close relatives.
Provides specialist housing and extra-care options for older people, designed to balance independence with peace of mind.
💬 Advocacy and Legal Protection
VoiceAbility – Advocacy Services
If you ever lose capacity to make decisions and don’t have family to speak for you, VoiceAbility can help. They provide Independent Mental Capacity Advocates (IMCAs) and other legal advocacy services to ensure your wishes are respected.
Compassion in Dying – Advance Decisions & Care Planning
Offers free tools and guidance to help you set up an Advance Decision or Advance Statement, so your preferences about medical treatment and care are clearly recorded.
📘 Planning Ahead
If you’re ageing solo, a little forward planning can make all the difference:
- Create your legal documents — will, Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), and Advance Decision.
- Identify trusted professionals who can act on your behalf when needed.
- Stay connected by joining local groups and building supportive friendships.
- Keep your essential details safe, organised, and easy to access — your PodVault is perfect for this. You can securely record where important documents, contacts, and plans are kept so that someone you trust can find them if needed.
Remember, the main Podplan account holder can invite up to four trusted people to share their account free of charge. It’s a simple, safe way to make sure your information is available to the right people, at the right time.
Even if you don’t have family nearby, you are not alone. With the right planning, support, and community around you, it’s entirely possible to live a secure, fulfilling, and well-connected life — your way.