Age Concern Exmouth has its foundation firmly steeped in history when it comes to  working with and for older people.

1940-1950

World War II brought hardship to everyone in Britain, and older people were especially vulnerable. Many families had lost their main breadwinner, or become separated. There was no welfare state and the 'poor law' provision of the time was woefully inadequate.

In 1940 groups of individuals, governmental and voluntary organisations came together to discuss how this situation could be improved. The Old People's Welfare Committee was born.

The committee soon gained national recognition and in 1944 it became known as the National Old People's Welfare Committee (NOPWC), taking under its umbrella many local organisations working to improve older people’s welfare.

1950-1960

With the advent of the welfare state, government money became available to fund work with older people. The NOPWC co-ordinated and facilitated the work of an increasing number of committees.

1970-1980

In 1971 the NOPWC became completely independent of government, and was renamed Age Concern. Many local groups took on the Age Concern name as time went on, and together they benefited from a unified image and a name reflecting the fact that they were not just committees but active providers of direct services.

Age Concern published the first report on the situation of older people from ethnic minority groups and began to develop services for these groups.

1980-1990

In a period of high unemployment, Age Concern became a national agent for job-creation and training schemes run by local groups, and drew attention to the plight of older people suffering from long-term unemployment or redundancy.

1990-2000

During this decade of social, political and financial change, Age Concern continued to provide essential services to older people and to prepare for the challenges of the new century.

2000-present

In July 2000, organisations sharing the name Age Concern came together to work in a federation: a structure which reflected their independence and autonomy but also their interdependence. Age Concern England, as the national federation member, worked alongside local Age Concerns and provided support and leadership in areas like campaigning and policy.

On 1 April 2009, Age Concern England and Help the Aged joined together to create a new charity dedicated to improving later life for everyone.

As of April 2010 Age Concern England and Help The Aged became known as Age UK.

Independent Age Concerns across the UK had a choice as to whether to enter into a contract with Age UK or to remain completely independent at a local level.

Age Concern Exmouth was keen to retain its independence and ability to be responsive to the needs of local people in the Exmouth and East Devon district.