A former Age Concern branch which joined with Age UK earlier this month is at risk of closure after losing its funding from the local council.

Management at Age UK Andover and District used the launch of its new brand to warn supporters that it has only raised £11,000, compared to running costs of £51,000 for its core activities, while its reserves will only last for “a few months”.

The shortfall has been caused by funding cuts from both Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC), despite negotiations with the local government officers concerned.

Chair, Dr Diane Newell, said the national Age UK organisation is a separate entity and that while it provides funding for specific projects it wouldn’t do so for the provision of core services.  

Age UK has however provided a grant to appoint a part-time professional fundraiser, though it is unclear whether this will be enough to safeguard the charity’s future. “With such skills we are confident that given sufficient local support we will increase our income,” said Newell.

In an open letter to local council candidates, she added: “The Conservative party pamphlet, 'Working for our Community', currently being distributed to all residents in Test Valley, states that there has been ‘no reduction in voluntary sector and charity funding’.  

“Clearly this is untrue and Age UK Andover and District is suffering as a result.”