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Over 130 older people from across the Crotlieve area came together with more than 15 local services at a community event in Hilltown last month, organised by Newry based charity Bolster Community.
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The Discover & Connect event took place on Thursday, 26 February at the INF Hall, Hilltown, bringing older people together in a social setting to find out what support is available to help them live well, stay connected and feel supported in later life. Local groups including The Cosy Club, The Sunshine Club, The Plough On members and the Clover Club were represented.
The afternoon included live music from Billy Finnegan, with attendees reconnecting, catching up and dancing, as well as conversations with local organisations and services over lunch.
MLA Sinéad Ennis welcomed attendees to the gathering, saying: "What a brilliant event by Bolster Community, bringing together so many different organisations and services all here to help our community live as well as possible into their older years. We're all getting older and it's so important to know what's available and what support services you can access, especially in rural South Down. It has been so good to see so many of our seniors come together and enjoy themselves after such a wet start to the year. Events like this are a reminder of the importance of connection as we age."
from St. Mark's High School Warrenpoint and worker, Patrick.
Allison Slater, Head of Operations at Bolster Community, said: "We're delighted to welcome so many people to Discover & Connect. The turnout has surpassed expectations." She also used the occasion to highlight the charity's ongoing Not Done Yet research survey, inviting all over 60s to share their thoughts on what would help them live well now and into the future. The survey is available online at bit.ly, with phone and postal options also available by contacting Bolster Community on 028 3083 5764.
The event was made possible through funding from Bank of Ireland via the Begin Together Community Fund, with support from the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland. Thanks were also extended to Noel Moan from The Newry Democrat for photographing the event, and to students from St Mark's High School for their assistance on the day. Special recognition was given to staff member Paula McCracken for her ongoing work with seniors in the community.
Bolster Community is a values led charity based in Newry and Kilkeel, working alongside individuals, families and communities to promote resilience, inclusion and wellbeing. The Discover & Connect event reflected that mission, and those wishing to keep up with future news and events from the charity can follow them on Facebook.
