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Join the Seniors in Partnership group, shape services and activities where you live

Join the Seniors in Partnership group, shape services and activities where you live

The Seniors in Partnership group is looking for new members. If you want to influence services or help to plan social activities at your sheltered housing or independent living scheme, then why not get involved?

The group has been running for about eight years and meets every two months. Members come from our different sheltered housing and independent living schemes across Bolton.

We caught up with its chair, Joan Manville, to find out what the group does and why she decided to get involved.

“I joined Seniors in Partnership three years ago and I’ve been chair for four months,” says Joan. “We’re a voice for older residents living in Bolton at Home schemes, and our role is to help support their needs.

“We discuss common issues that affect us and try to come up with solutions. We also raise concerns with staff at the meetings, and they either address matters there and then or report back to us. Sometimes we have professionals in to talk about particular topics such budgeting and saving money. We then pass this advice on to the residents where we live.”

Joan, who lives at Longsight Lodge independent living scheme in Harwood, says the meetings are also an opportunity to catch up with friends.

“At the moment, there’s just six of us,” she says. “We’re a friendly bunch and we enjoy seeing each other. We meet at a different scheme location each time, usually over a coffee and cake.

“Being involved is something I really enjoy. I feel that I can offer something positive to the group. And it’s good to see some of our suggestions put into practise.”

portrait photograph of Joan Manville

Thank you Joan, pictured above, and to all members of the Seniors in Partnership group.

 

Funding for social activities

The group is also instrumental in securing funding for social activities. Over the years it has successfully applied for grants worth thousands of pounds. The money has been used to pay for trips, clubs and various social events. Applying for more funding is something the group is keen on.

“We’d love to have more members, particularly people who’re interested in helping us apply for grants,” added Joan. “But really, anyone is welcome to join us. It’s a good way to meet people and we always have a bit of fun when we get together.”

If you’re interested in joining the Seniors in Partnership group, or you’d like more information, please contact: Lesley Tyrer, on 01204 329678 or 07919 555284, or email lesley.tyrer@ boltonathome.org.uk. Or Hanna English on 07392 108286 or email hanna.english@boltonathome.org.uk

 

1 October is the International Day of Older Persons

  • This year marks 32 years of the International Day of Older Persons.
  • It’s led by the United Nations.
  • This year’s theme recognises the resilience and contributions of older people.
  • Follow us Facebook (@fbboltonathome) or Twitter (@boltonathome) for updates on a related event happening soon in Bolton Town Centre to give advice, run activities and say thanks to local people who’ve done wonderful things.
  • Get involved online using the social media hashtag #UNIDOP