A SUPPORT service for the over 50s facing uncertainty over its future could be saved by the efforts of volunteers.

Age Concern Hampshire is said to be considering closing the doors of its Information and Advice branch, at Town Mills House, due to funding issues.

However, the charity’s volunteer team has since banded together in an attempt to maintain the provision of the service.

A spokesperson for Age Concern Hampshire, said: “Staff are coming forward as volunteers to try and keep some of these services going.

“If we can keep them going, we will.”

Age Concern Hampshire raises most of its funds through voluntary income, grants and donations, but its total income has fallen each year since 2016.

The charity’s Andover branch used to be run by Age UK Mid Hampshire (AUKMH).

In June last year, Age Concern Hampshire took over the running of the service as AUKMH could no longer make it viable due its own financial issues.

Len Gates, a former trustee of AUKMH, said: “I am disappointed to hear the rumours and understand they are trying to keep things going and I think it’s important we get behind the volunteers and support them.

“I know the volunteers and staff at the Andover office and I am sure they are doing everything they can to keep the service running.”

Hampshire County Council has offered funds for the charity in the past, including £60,000 over an 18-month period, provided in September last year.

However, those funds were to be used to help the organisation “expand their service across rural Hampshire in an effort to help reduce social isolation.”

A spokesperson for HCC said: “We understand Age Concern is considering the future of the Andover service, and appreciating the constraints they are under, we will work closely with them to explore all possible options to ensure local people are able to continue to access the information, advice and guidance they need.”