OLDER people who suffer from depression in Worcestershire need not feel alone, thanks to a new campaign.

Age Concern has launched a national campaign, Down, But Not Out, to help older people with mental health problems.

More than two million people over 65 in England have the symptoms of depression but the majority do not get the help they need, according to the charity.

Nicola Hampton, personal relations team manager based at Age Concern Herefordshire & Worcestershire in Sansome Street, Worcester, said help was out there for over 50s who were suffering from mental health problems.

She said: “This campaign is a continuation of the work we already do. Absolutely, there is help for them – older people should not feel alone. We are always here for them. We offer a number of services ranging from prevention through to sign-posting for people who are worried about mental health issues. We do that through an information and advice service.”

Services include Wellcheck, health packages and advice tailor-made for the needs of each person, healthy living programmes throughout the two counties, guidance on healthy eating and advice on benefits and pensions.

Brian Hunt, aged 71, of Lansdowne Rise, Worcester, of the Worcestershire Pensioner’s Action Group, backed the campaign and said older people must not be allowed to slip through the net.

Mr Hunt said: “Lots of older people go through depression without knowing it. One of the worst things for depression among older people is loneliness. This is why we’re so concerned about people left alone in their own homes. Depression is a far more serious illness than people give it credit for. It destroys some people’s lives.”

Worcestershire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust helps older people suffering from severe depression or long-standing mental illness while milder, more short-term forms of depression are often treated through a GP.

For more information about the Age Concern campaign call Maggie Parker, active ageing team manager on 01905 726652.