A series of workshops and activities to improve the lives of older residents will be launched across the ABC Borough over the next two years, thanks to funding from the PEACEPLUS programme.
The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). PEACE Programmes have played an important role in reinforcing progress towards a more peaceful and stable society here since they were established in 1995.
With the number of people aged over 50 continuing to grow across the borough, this new project will help foster a greater sense of community, connection and wellbeing for this expanding demographic.
The Age Friendly Programme will be delivered by Southern Regional College and feature a series of workshops running over six weeks. Sessions will focus on key themes: Keep Active, Keep Well, Keep Connected, Keep Informed, Keep Creative and Keep Learning.
Lord Mayor of ABC Borough and a council Age Friendly Champion, Councillor Mary O’Dowd said:
“Being active and learning new things are great ways to stay young at heart! Regular physical and social activities can make a significant difference to older residents, helping them maintain their independence, improve their wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
“By participating in the Age Friendly Programme, older people will gain practical skills and knowledge to support healthy and active ageing.”
The project aims to encourage older adults to volunteer, engage in the development of digital skills and foster meaningful connections with local service providers. There will also be opportunities to participate in arts and crafts, heritage activities, community support and intergenerational programmes.
Southern Regional College’s Assistant Director of Business and Economic Engagement, Tracy Rice said:
“Southern Regional College is delighted to be working in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council on the Age Friendly Programme, delivered through PEACEPLUS. This is an important initiative that will help create meaningful opportunities for older people to connect with others, build confidence, develop new skills and become more actively involved in their local communities.
“Through our work in the Business and Economic Engagement Department, we are proud to facilitate and contribute to a project that places inclusion, wellbeing and community engagement at its heart. We look forward to seeing the positive and lasting impact this project will have, helping older people feel valued, supported and empowered to participate fully in community life.”
Residents aged 50 years and over and living in the ABC Borough who would like to find out more about the programme are invited to join the Age Friendly mailing list by emailing or for more information visit www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/agefriendly
Last year it was announced that ABC Council secured £6,759,997 funding from PEACEPLUS for the council’s four-year programme, which includes a series of social, community, cultural and capital projects and events, with the aim of developing and promoting community relations, respect, diversity and active citizenship.
