SUPPORT: The helpline aims to help older Britons “navigate the complex Spanish residency system”, the charity said. CREDIT: Media Age in Spain
AGE in Spain has launched a new helpline for British expats of retirement age who are unsure how to apply for Spanish residence in the run-up to the end of the Brexit transition period, scheduled for December 31.
The Age in Spain Residency Helpline for over 65s “is here to help older Britons navigate the complex Spanish residency system,” the charity said, providing personalized support by phone, live chat and email.
In the Balearic Islands and Catalonia, there is extra help for the most vulnerable older people who need support due to barriers such as language, ability and lack of access to a computer. Specially trained volunteer assistants will allow them to carry out their paperwork and apply for residency.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Age in Spain to target help to those over 65 who need it most,” said Age in Spain President Judy Arnold-Boakes.
“We have been supporting British people in Spain for more than 30 years, and this project will allow us to provide the time and solidarity that the most vulnerable Britons need to get through the residency process.”
The service is one of several projects funded by the UK Government’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (the UK National Support Fund).
“You don’t have to be older to be stumped by the residency application process. But if you are older, you may have trouble dealing with technology, you may have vision and hearing problems, you may have difficulty going out, and you may not have family nearby to support you.
“We are providing the time and personal support to people who might otherwise go unnoticed and who need to sort out their residency as the UK prepares to leave the EU,” said Judy.
Specially trained volunteers supported by a small team of professional staff provide the helpline and outreach services.
The charity asks that anyone who needs help completing a residency application, or knows someone who does, can call them on (34) 932 209 741, or visit the Age in Spain website for more information: www.ageinspain.org/residency-helpline.
Anyone interested in being part of the residency helpline and becoming a volunteer should check out the Age in Spain website for more information and to apply: www.ageinspain.org/voluntarios.
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