International Day of Older Persons 2019
Published: 01/10/2019
Today is celebrated by raising awareness about issues affecting the elderly, such as elder abuse. It is also a day to appreciate the contributions that older people make to society.
At Bluebird Care Camden & Hampstead, we are celebrating International day of Older Persons in style. Today, 1st of October we have awarded our first community grants to exciting projects that will have a big impact on the quality of life of older people living in the area. We launched the scheme offering up to £500 for two projects which focus on supporting older people and help combat isolation.
Our Director, George says:
Charities and groups play such an important role in our community, providing support, new activities, skills and friendship to some of the most vulnerable people locally. International days are occasions to help address problems, educate, support and celebrate achievements. We were so happy with the interest in the grant, we had 13 diverse and interesting applications overall. It was very difficult to decide which projects to support. Five customers and ten members of our team gave their thoughts and voted on the projects that inspired them and that they wanted the money to go to. It was an eye-opening experience for a number of our customers and team who were on the judging panel. Some comments included: I never knew there was so much creative energy in our community. These projects were inspiring and exciting to read about We as older people really need projects and communities like these to help keep our bodies and minds active, it is refreshing to see so much going on.
Money awarded by Bluebird Care was to:
African Health Forum - £500
AHF will deliver 3 Zumba classes over 2 months, the grant will help them pay for venues, a dance instructor and transport, for those aged 65 and over within the Black African, black Caribbean, Black British and other Black communities in Camden, by taking an active approach of encouraging them to engage in a physical activity, to prevent physical ill health and poor mental health.
Chikwaba Oduka (BAME ABC Lead) said - “ As an organisation the African Health Forum appreciates the support for funding from Bluebird Care. We feel there is a need for Older People from African communities to have some form of exercise to improve both their mental and physical health”.
A member said - “Since my husband died, I don’t go out at all. We used to enjoy Zumba sessions together. Am really happy that we are getting support from Bluebird Care to start Zumba sessions, Zumba does help improve my health”
Holborn Community Association - £450
HCA will use the grant to kick start the windows to the soil project where over 65s use a dedicated space to learn about gardening, grow their own fruit and vegetables and harvest their crop. It is a place for people to come together, socialise and feel less isolated . Gardening is a fantastic activity to help with physical and cognitive stimulation.
Andrew Rogers, the Over 55s Manager, said - "Thanks to Bluebird Care for their support. With the Windows to the Soil project, the members of our over 65s Gardening club can now fulfill their dreams. By growing their own vegetables, they can enjoy the fruits of their labor at dinner with their friends at Millman Street."
GJ, who is one of our Volunteers who helps in the centre and the garden said - "Our garden is so important to Millman Street. It is a beautiful green oasis of colour and peace. We have to thank Bluebird Care for their generosity and for helping it to continue to grow."
Bluebird Care Camden and Hampstead is planning future grant rounds. If you have a project which supports older people in the area and you would like more information about how to apply, please contact us.
