Something certainly got people talking last week when 41 local residents attended an older people’s information and activity event hosted by Christ Church and Staying Well.
The day was all about showcasing the services and activities available for local people in Hipperholme and Lightcliffe, and how the Staying Well Team is available in your area to help you take that first step out of the door. Mostly though it was about fun, meeting people and having a go at something new and the 41 residents attending enjoyed a programme of activities including a gentle exercise class, Tai Chi, new age kurling and an art class demonstration.
The Staying Well project helps people to access social and health and well-being related activities in the community. The service is open to any adult over 18 in Calderdale but is particularly focused at people who are already, or are at risk of becoming lonely or isolated people.
Joining us on the day were the District Matrons, Hipperholme library and the Home Library Service, the Falls Prevention team and Rowlands Pharmacy offering free blood pressure checks.
Over the course of the day people gave their views on what they thought were the main barriers for older people accessing activities in Hipperholme and what gaps in provision there are. Now a group of 6 residents, Cllr Raistrick, Rowlands Pharmacy and members of the Church have decided to get together with the Staying Well team to look at this in more detail over coming months.
Local resident Esme Dyson said,
“People hope for a nice long life and when you’re young you don’t always consider that a long life often comes hand in hand with failing eyes or extra trouble getting around. For older people the availability of local services and activity groups can make such a difference to quality of life.
“That’s why I’m so pleased to be involved in today and I would encourage everyone to take an active part in improving their own health and well-being.”
The Staying Well team is also available to support local groups and organisations who want to develop new activities in their area. The team can help with applying for funding and also promoting and publicising your group or organisation.
If you would like to get involved, or would like more information, call the Staying Well team on 01422 392767 or email stayingwellproject@calderdale.gov.uk.
Additional thanks from the organisers go to the High Five singing group for providing sing-a-long entertainment, and to local caterers, The Village Pantry for a lovely spread.
Some more feedback from the day:
“First class! Great morning out”, ” Well run, loved the taster sessions”,
“What a great turnout – just shows what a great place Hipperholme is!”
“Thank you for all the energy you have put into today’s activities and the lovely lunch”
“Brilliant well organised”
“Very interesting looking forward to taking part”
stayingwellhub.com 