Age UK launch phone for older people

Age UK is celebrating the country-wide launch of its new mobile phone, with a special Christmas package deal.

The Age UK My Phone is launching in 200 Age UK shops across England after a successful four month trial through Age UK's shop in Peterborough.

It has been designed specifically for people who want a straightforward, personal phone - featuring a maximum of eight buttons, all of which can be customised to contact loved ones with a single press.

All the user needs to do is push a button and their friends and family can be contacted instantly, with no need for dialling numbers or going through a phonebook.

Half of people aged over 75 don't own a mobile phone

Helena King, Head of Affinity at Age UK, explained why mobile communications matter to Age UK.

She said: 'According to recent research, over two-thirds (68%) of those aged 65 plus use a mobile phone and this drops to just over half (52%) amongst those aged 75 plus, so it's not surprising that many older people can feel excluded from the benefits this technology has to offer.

'Age UK has worked with CyCell to provide vital insights into the older market to launch the Age UK My Phone that can be used easily, regardless of technological expertise.'

'The Age UK My Phone is an important addition to our product portfolio with the aim of making sure the older consumer is catered for and to support our aim of improving later life."

Christmas gift package

To celebrate the launch, Age UK are including a Christmas gift package as part of the range of price plans available with the phone.

The package, which can be bought as a gift, costs £87.50 for the handset and 50 minutes of calls per month for six months.

It will be available to buy until 31 December, but to receive the phone in time for Christmas, orders will need to be received by 5.30pm on Friday 14 December for guaranteed delivery.

Customers don't have to make a long-term commitment to pay for their phone but can instead cancel their contract by giving 30 days' notice should it no longer suit their requirements. There is a 28 day money back guarantee, with 12 months warranty as standard.