Spotlight on older people

Published by 792 for Housing 21 in Housing and also in Communities

The over 50s were the focus yesterday at a special 'Age takes the Stage' event in Bedminster, Bristol. 

The fun-filled event, part of Bristol’s Celebrating Age Festival, included an assortment of live entertainment and taster sessions such as yoga, tai chi, Zumba and line dancing as well as art and gentle exercise. The joint venture between Housing 21 and LinkAge also provided information and advice stalls from a range of local charities, voluntary and statutory agencies covering topics such as housing, health, finance, recreation, education, employment, volunteering and assistive technology. 

Mike Higgs, court manager of Jennings Court, Housing 21’s sheltered housing scheme in Lower Sidney Street said: “Housing 21 is delighted to have worked with LinkAge in staging this event during the Celebrating Age Festival. This has been a very exciting day and a wonderful opportunity for local older people to have a bit of fun and find out more about a whole range of subjects.”

Claire Miller the LinkAge Development Coordinator said: “We really wanted people to come along, try the different activities, enjoy the music and more than anything, have fun! LinkAge talked to people at the event about the types of activities they would like to see happening in this local area, so if Zumba is popular we may well be able to set a class up locally!”

The free event was funded with grants and donations from The Quartet Community Foundation, the staff team at Wilkinson Bedminster, Age UK, LinkAge and Housing 21. Donations of gifts for a tombola were also provided by local businesses. Around  30 organisations represented or supported the event, including the police and fire services, Bristol City council and local charities and community groups.