A SECOND brand partner of Age UK covering Worcestershire has announced it is not affected by another brand's closure.

Age UK Worcester, Malvern Hills and Hereford Localities, a separate organisation, has announced it will continue to support older people.

It comes after Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire announced its closure at the end of the month due to financial issues.

A spokesperson for Age UK Worcester, Malvern Hills and Hereford Localities said: "We are an independent charity, self-funded and operating as a brand partner of Age UK national.

"We ask for your understanding at this difficult time while we work with stakeholders and the communities across both counties to ensure continuity of service and plan for the future."

Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire, based in Bromwich Road, Worcester, said it will close in less than a month.

The charity, which specialises in supporting older people, their families and its carers, will shut its doors on Monday, September 30.

Julia Neal, CEO of Age UK Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: "We are extremely saddened and disappointed that it has come to this.

"We know that our clients will be concerned about what this news means for them, and we are in the process of making contact to ensure that they know what arrangements will be in place for them."

The branch of Age UK explained that financial challenges, such as rising operating costs and fewer opportunities to raise funds, have led to the decision to stop offering services.

"Last year we supported more than 15,000 older people across our two counties, which had a significant impact on their lives.

"As a charity, which makes a significant contribution to the work of the wider health and care system, we have contributed to support some of the most vulnerable older people at a time when they most need that support.

"However, this commitment has meant that we have become increasingly vulnerable to the challenges faced by providers delivering commissioned services."

In the past 12 months, the branch has helped older people access £1.4 million in previously unclaimed benefits, conducting free home energy checks and assisting over 1,000 residents in returning home after spending time in hospital.