Ambition for Ageing is bringing people together

According to Age UK, more than a million older people go over a month without speaking to a friend, family member, or neighbour

Ambition for Ageing is calling for 'age-friendly' ideas ahead of a launch aimed at getting Oldham talking.

According to Age UK, more than a million older people go over a month without speaking to a friend, family member, or neighbour.

Over two million in England over the age of 75 live alone, and widowed people are disproportionately more likely to feel the effects of loneliness.

Even without the societal stigma surrounding loneliness, isolation can seriously affect an individual's health.

Ambition for Ageing is a £10.2 million programme aimed at empowering people to live fulfilling lives as they age.

A part of Ageing Better, it is one of five major programmes set up by the Big Lottery Fund - and now it's coming to Oldham.

With the belief that a series of small changes can have a huge impact on a community, the fund has teamed up with Action Together and Age UK to make a difference in the borough.

On Saturday (September 15), between 12 noon and 3pm at 8-9 Eldon Precinct in Oldham, they are launching a series of projects such as SAWN community neighbourhood project and BFEM work club, who are looking for 'Chatting Champions' to help people improve their spoken English.

Alongside these, the launch will include free NHS Health Checks by the Early Help Team, the opportunity to meet other local groups, and free refreshments.

Teresa Griffiths, Engagement & Wellbeing Co-ordinator at Age UK Oldham, said: “We’re really pleased to be able to offer these small investments in the heart of communities so that local people can really make a difference to their area.

"The ultimate aim is to bring people together to reduce social isolation across communities."

In an effort to learn from new approaches to designing services, the project is taking ideas directly from the community, inviting locals over 50 to join steering groups and volunteer their ideas.

Don't miss your chance to have a say in how the investment is spent locally and play a role in promoting healthier and happier lives.

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