Weds 19th March 2025
Imago Community is a charity based in Tunbridge Wells that can trace its roots back 60 years. It offers support to over 34,000 people across the south-east, including young carers and older people who are socially isolated.
Wendy McGeachy joined the group to tell us more about the charity, often described as the largest charity you’ve never heard of. Over its history, it has merged with many other small charities to put it in a position of relative strength, as it is large enough to raise funds through outsourcing of services from a number of local authorities. For instance, they administer the Kent Travel Saver pass which enables free public transport for young carers.
Wendy mentioned that there are over 1,000 young carers in Ashford alone, ranging from the ages of 5 to 18 and with many levels of responsibility. Younger carers may need to monitor infant siblings for an incapacitated parent, whereas older ones may need to lift a disabled relative in and out of bed, cook meals and administer medicines.
Imago also offer befriending services to over 55s who have, perhaps through bereavement, ended up isolated. Or younger adults who have a mild to moderate learning or physical disability. Their CAMEO (Come And Meet Each Other) service, for instance, brings isolated adults together to socialise.
Like all charities, Imago are constantly looking for support, both financial and otherwise. If you are interested in doing so then there are many suggestions on their website.