Residents Celebrate Positive Ageing Month at Newcastle Event

More than 180 residents gathered at the Burrendale Hotel, Newcastle, on Thursday 22 October for a successful Tackling Isolation and Loneliness Together (TILT) event celebrating Positive Ageing Month.

The event was organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Downpatrick, Mournes, Rowallane and Slieve Croob District Electoral Area (DEA) Forums in partnership with the County Down Rural Community Network, with support from the Down Community Planning Partnership, National Lottery Community Fund and the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.

Attendees enjoyed a day of information, entertainment and social connection. A range of information stands provided access to advice, services and support available within the local community, with the event beginning with an engaging crime prevention presentation by Tom Jamison of the PSNI, who shared practical advice on staying safe and protecting against scams and fraud.

Following the presentation, participants enjoyed a lively bingo session before being entertained by local musician Conal Montgomery, dancing and singing along to a selection of their favourite tunes, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

The Burrendale event concluded with lunch, providing people with a further opportunity to socialise and connect with others. Organisers highlighted the importance of initiatives such as TILT in helping to reduce social isolation, promote wellbeing and support older people to remain active and engaged within their communities.

The event was part of a continuing initiative across Newry, Mourne and Down to promote stronger community connections and ensure older residents feel valued, supported and included.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna said, “This was another excellent event in our Positive Ageing Month celebrations. It was tremendous that almost 200 residents attended the Burrendale event, reaffirming how important opportunities to connect, socialise and support one another are within our communities.

“Positive Ageing Month is a time to celebrate the valuable contribution of our older residents, and events such as this help ensure people remain active, informed and engaged. My thanks to all the organisers, partners and volunteers who helped create such an enjoyable and meaningful day.”