Seniors from Downpatrick, Rowallane, Mournes and Slieve Croob DEAs Enjoy Uplifting Afternoon Tea Dance

Older residents from the Downpatrick, Rowallane, Mournes and Slieve Croob District Electoral Areas (DEAs) came together on Thursday 12 February for a vibrant Afternoon Tea Dance at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel, hosted by Down Senior Forum.

Funded by County Down Rural Community Network through the Community Lottery Fund, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Tackling Isolation Loneliness Together Fund, and the South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust, the event combined entertainment with practical wellbeing support.

Guests enjoyed freshly served tea, coffee and scones while listening to a short health and wellbeing talk by Catherine Murnin from The Wellbeing Pathway. A lively tea dance followed, with music provided by Country Harmony. Information stands from organisations including Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Asda, Volunteer Now and the Multi-Disciplinary Team offered advice and support on a range of services.

Each attendee also received a goody bag containing a fleece blanket, thermal cup, tea, biscuits and helpful health information, ensuring the benefits of the event extended beyond the day itself.

Down Senior Forum, established in 2003, brings together community, statutory and voluntary partners to improve later life across the legacy Down area. The Forum works closely with the Public Health Agency, South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and other older people’s networks across Northern Ireland to support the health, wellbeing and social inclusion of older residents.

The Afternoon Tea Dance provided a warm and welcoming opportunity for older people to socialise, stay active and access useful information during the winter months, reinforcing Down Senior Forum’s ongoing commitment to reducing isolation and promoting wellbeing across the community.