Older people’s community groups from across Mid and East Antrim came together recently for a special Agewell Members Meeting, welcoming the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland – Siobhan Casey to hear about her work and share updates directly with local groups.
Hosted by Mid & East Antrim Agewell Partnership at the Maine Business Centre in Cullybackey, the meeting brought together representatives from community groups and organisations supporting older people across the borough.
The Commissioner provided an update on her work and priorities, giving members the opportunity to hear about the issues affecting older people across Northern Ireland and to share their own experiences, views and priorities.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for Agewell to showcase the range of support currently available to older people and community organisations across Mid and East Antrim.
Members heard updates on the Empower Programme, which supports older people’s community groups to develop their capacity, build skills and strengthen their sustainability. Updates were also provided on IMPACTAgewell®, Agewell’s model of care, which works alongside older people and health and community partners to help people live well and remain connected to their communities. The Agewell Empower Programme funded by The Dormant Assets Scheme, facilitated by The National Lottery Community Fund Northern Ireland.
The group also heard about Dots Home & Life Services, Agewell’s social enterprise providing practical support in people’s homes and gardens while creating age-friendly employment opportunities for people in later life.
The meeting highlighted the important role that local community groups play in supporting older people, tackling loneliness and isolation, creating opportunities for connection and ensuring that the voices of older people are heard.
Jenny Marshall – Executive Director of Community Programmes at Agewell, said:
“Our Members Meetings are an important opportunity to bring older people’s community groups together, share information and, most importantly, listen to what is happening on the ground in communities across Mid and East Antrim. We were delighted to welcome the Commissioner for Older People and give our members the opportunity to hear directly about her work, while also sharing the experiences and priorities of older people locally. Our community groups are doing fantastic work every day to support older people and create connected, age-friendly communities. By coming together, we can share learning, strengthen partnerships and make sure older people’s voices continue to influence the services and support available to them.”
The meeting reinforced the importance of partnership working and ensuring that older people remain at the heart of conversations about the communities, services and opportunities that affect their lives.
Agewell continues to work alongside older people, community organisations, statutory partners and local services across Mid and East Antrim to create opportunities for people to age well, stay connected and live fulfilling lives within their communities.
For further information on Agewell’s services please contact the Agewell Office on 028 2565 8604.