Communities Fund Employee Giving has provided £200 of match funding
£25,000 to mark 25 years of OCAY’s work
York, United Kingdom
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Aim
Help us raise £25,000 to mark 25 years of OCAY’s work Every £25 raised helps our charity continue supporting people over 50 in the York area
OCAY’s vital support has been changing lives for over-50s in York for 25 years.
2 million older people in the UK are struggling with financial worries and here in York we see the impact - worsening physical conditions, anxiety and the strain on mental wellbeing.
OCAY exists to make sure no one has to face their problems alone.
Our aim is to raise £25,000 to mark 25 years of OCAY’s work
So many people minimise their struggles. With your help, we will be able to more people to get the things that they are entitled do.
OCAY stands at a pivotal moment.
We are a charity that:
- has supported over 520 people in the past year - a number that is rising all the time
- helps with issues relating to benefits, finance, energy, consumer rights, housing, health and complaints
- is one of the very few volunteer led charities able to provide advocacy services for people 50+ in York
How we help people feel more secure and in control of their money
Poor physical or mental health often has a significant impact on a person’s financial wellbeing. Reduced mobility, loss of independence, caring responsibilities, or an inability to work can all lead to financial hardship and uncertainty. As a result, many people need support to access the benefits and financial assistance they are entitled to.
OCAY plays a vital role in helping people improve their financial security. By providing guidance, practical support with applications and appeals, and a listening ear during difficult times, we help reduce stress and anxiety while enabling people to maximise their income and feel more in control of their finances.
Some examples of how we do this include:
- Supporting people to obtain a Blue Badge, helping to reduce transport barriers and the additional costs associated with limited mobility.
- Helping people over 65 access Attendance Allowance, providing valuable financial support for those who need help with personal care due to illness, disability, or reduced independence.
- Assisting adults to successfully claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP), ensuring they receive financial support to meet the extra costs of living with a health condition or disability.
- Helping family members apply for Carer’s Allowance, recognising and supporting the vital role they play in providing unpaid care.
- Supporting people with benefit applications, reviews, mandatory reconsiderations, and appeals to ensure they receive the financial support they are entitled to.
- Assisting older people on low incomes to claim Pension Credit, which can significantly increase income and unlock access to other forms of financial assistance and support.
- We even helped a lady overturn a council tax banding and helped another client get onto the housing list to help stop poor housing from destroying their health.
Through this support, we help people increase their income, access vital financial assistance, reduce financial stress, and build greater confidence in managing their money.
How you can help:
- Donate £25
- Walk/run/cycle/swim 25 miles
- Do your 25 your way
Case study
PIP Daily Living review - financial hardship & overwhelmed by bureaucratic processes
- Problem: We supported a client in remission from a chronic illness worried about completing their PIP review form, as well as dealing with lifelong mental health challenges.
- Solution: Their daily living allowance was maintained, unlocking pension credit, dental support and security.
“The volunteer advocate was invaluable - gentle, caring and really listened. He helped me think things through and complete the form. It’s a huge relief - without it, I could be at risk of homelessness.”
Thank you for helping us.
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 6th August 2026 at 12:28pm