Age International UK (HelpAge International UK)

The overall humanitarian situation in Nepal has improved. However, a number of the population in earthquake-affected areas continues to require humanitarian assistance. Assessment findings of various agencies, clusters, HelpAge and partner organizations show that there are significant numbers of households headed by OP and/or widows/widowers. Such households are amongst the poorest and most vulnerable. Many of the 14 affected districts in Nepal have a high rate of migration, with nearly 5.6% of the population in the 14 districts away from their homes for work and other purposes. A 2011 Central Bureau of Statistics’ report found that one in four households had at least one male of working age working away from home. From such statistics, it is estimated that increasing numbers of OP have become responsible for supporting their families, mobilizing resources and caring for dependents including grandchildren. Since the earthquake, many OP are also now finding themselves looking after young dependents whose parents have either died, or been injured due to the earthquake. The geography and terrain of the affected districts coupled with poor infrastructure makes it difficult for vulnerable groups like OP and persons with disability (PwD) to access humanitarian aid. They are often excluded from needs assessments limiting access to assistance and posing risks for both OP and their family members. Many OP have reported their inability to queue and travel long distances to reach distribution points. As a result, they have reported missing out on receiving essential relief aid.

On 25th April, 2015, an earthquake with a 7.8 magnitude and a depth of 2 km, hit Nepal. The National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) reported a total of 8,462 deaths and another 20,000 people injured (cumulative from 25 April earthquake). It is also estimated that 489,000 homes have been destroyed and another 260,000 damaged . Whilst the initial quake caused significant damage, and loss of life, subsequent tremors have also proved destructive, and have disrupted relief efforts . As of 10th May, (prior to the second earthquake), 4.2 million people were thought to have been affected, with 2.8 million individuals displaced. 8.1% of Nepal’s population is aged 60 or over. HelpAge's Emergency programme was to assist Older People affected by the Nepal earthquake through provision of unconditional cash transfers, Improving access to health care, ensuring the needs are met of Older People living with disabilities, provision of transitional shelter