Age-friendly Manchester E-bulletin
An electronic publication bringing you news and updates from the
Age-friendly Manchester team and our partners
Issue 111 – February 2015
About this e-bulletin
Welcome to the February 2015 edition of the Age-friendly Manchester
e-bulletin – a monthly update, with 1600 direct recipients in Manchester
and further afield, featuring brief articles on local and national news,
events and information that relates to older people.
Please send all copy, comments and suggestions to
agefriendly@manchester.gov.uk
News from Age-friendly Manchester
Age-friendly Manchester Lord Mayor’s Challenge
As part of the Age-friendly Manchester programme, the Lord Mayor Sue Cooley
has launched the Age-friendly Manchester Challenge. The is to Manchester
organisations, residents, groups, companies and others who would like to
make the city more age-friendly and pledge action to carry out across 2015.
This could be to develop a new project with older people, to work with
older people in new and different ways or to change work practices so they
are age-friendly. To make your pledge, or to discuss it further, email
Patrick Hanfling on p.hanfling@manchester.gov.uk or call on 0161 234 4188.
Volunteering and Training Opportunities
Want to spend your time doing something enjoyable and meaningful? Want to
share your skills and experience with others?
George House Trust helps people living with HIV to live happy and healthy
lives and be free of stigma and discrimination. A range of roles are
currently being recruited to; from volunteer drivers to kitchen assistants
and nutritionists, volunteer counsellors, food parcel volunteers,
volunteer receptionists and workshop co-facilitators. Find out more via
email – volunteering@ght.org.uk or phone 0161 274 5653, or on the website:
www.ght.org.uk/volunteer. Alternatively you can visit one of the upcoming
Volunteer Recruitment Events: Wednesday 11 February, 12 – 2pm at George
House Trust – click the link to register:
https://ghtdata.org.uk/
civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=
291
Wednesday 11 March, 5.30 – 7.30pm at George House Trust – click the link to
register: https://ghtdata.org.uk/
civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=
292
Intergen Coordinator for Tyldesley
Are you a people person? Are you retired? Help recruit volunteers who want
to give something back to the community. You will work with Fred Longworth
High School, Garrett Hall Primary School, and one other primary school in
the Tyldesley area. Training and support is provided, along with the
opportunity to meet interesting people whilst making a contribution to your
local community. Part time/ flexible hours to suit you. Honorarium and
expenses paid. Contact office@intergen.org.uk for a job description and
application pack or call 0208 980 0693. Closing date 6 February 2015.
Would you like to share your lifetime of skills and experience with young
people?
Intergen Burnage are looking for retired volunteers in the Burnage/
Withington/ Levenshulme/ Didsbury area who could spare an hour or so a week
to assist in a variety of ways in one of three local schools. It might be
an after school club (there is a huge variety-everything from cookery,
drama, science, visual arts) or reading club, or it might be helping advise
the gardening group or the group that keeps chickens. The aim is to break
down generational barriers and open young peoples minds to what us third
agers can do! Many children don’t have grandmas and grandpas in their life
and would welcome this positive link. Interested? Contact the Burnage
Intergen co-ordinator Hazel Roy on 07946 427 860 or 0161 434 5021 /
hazel.roy@intergen.org.uk
Did you live, work, grow up or go out in the Ardwick Green area in 1940s
-1960s?
Would you like to see old maps and photos and share memories of everyday
life in Ardwick like St Thomas’ Church, Whit Walks, shops and businesses,
wartime experiences, entertainment and social life? If yes, then join this
group for cake at a tea party on Saturday 14 February, 10.30am – 1.30pm.
At St Thomas Centre, Ardwick Green North, Manchester, M12 6FZ. Stories and
photos shared may be published or exhibited at a celebration event in May
2015. To register your interest contact Ali Crush, phone 0161 277 1022,
email: alison.crush@gmcvo.org.uk
Do you love to read? Want to make a difference in your local community?
Need a new challenge for the New Year?
Why not consider becoming a reading helper volunteer with Beanstalk. As a
fully trained and supported reading helper, you will visit a local primary
school (always within 5 miles of your home, but usually nearer) twice a
week to support three children with their literacy and confidence by
reading books and playing games with them. Volunteers support the same
three children for a full 12 months. Beanstalk is looking for volunteers in
Beswick, Clayton and Openshaw. To find out more please contact Jane on 0161
814 9515, email manchester@beanstalkcharity.
org.uk or visit the website
www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk
Volunteer Opportunity – Volunteer Handyperson
Manchester Care & Repair are on the lookout for a Volunteer Handyperson.
Volunteers will complete tasks alongside our HandyHelp Safety Operatives.
These include the fitting of safety equipment, minor plumbing jobs and
joinery work. This role would suit someone who has DIY or trades skills and
you must have your own car. All out of pocket expenses are fully
reimbursed. If you’re interested, please call Manchester Care & Repair on
0161 872 5500. For more details, visit
http://www.careandrepair-
manchester.org.uk/support-us/
volunteer/
Employer Assisted Volunteering
If you are a business, local to Wythenshawe, thinking about employee
volunteering, why not contact The Generation Project? The Project works in
partnership with local business to provide meaningful volunteer
opportunities for their employees, and where staff at all levels donate
time and skills, during work hours, to tackle local issues around
loneliness and isolation of older people. It’s an effective and powerful
way for businesses to invest in their employees and the local community.
Contact Marie on 07875 286 866 or visit
www.wythenshawegoodneighbours.
org.uk
People First Volunteer Befriending Scheme
People First are recruiting volunteer befrienders for our scheme in Hulme
and Moss Side. Volunteers visit adults aged 55 years and over to help
reduce loneliness and social isolation. A full training package is
provided, with reasonable out of pocket expenses paid and support to find
permanent employment or other volunteering opportunities. Due to working
with vulnerable adults you will be asked to complete a full DBS, which will
be paid for. Previous experience is not required. If you are interested in
volunteering please contact Wesley Langley – Scheme Coordinator – phone
0161 235 6900 or email: wesley.langley@pfha.co.uk or website:
www.peoplefirsthousing.co.uk
From Where I Stand
Do you want your voice to be heard? What are you passionate about?
The Royal Exchange Theatre is looking for women to take part in a project
alongside young adults. From Where I Stand is a series of creative
workshops on Thursdays throughout March and April. The project will bring
together girls and women from across Greater Manchester to discuss and
debate the topics which matter to them. You will work with a writer to turn
your thoughts and ideas into short speeches and scripts, and with a
director who will help you to find imaginative ways of delivering your
speech to an audience. For further information please contact Kate Reynolds
on 0161 615 6775 or email kate.reynolds@royalexchange.
co.uk
Healthcare when you need, where you need it
Are you aged 56 – 60? Would you like to find out how to access healthcare
services in your community? Manchester City Council is recruiting people to
take part in a focus group to help put people in touch with local
healthcare services right on their doorstep. If you’d like to help to help
people like you then please contact Ruth Edwards on 0161 234 4927 or email
r.edwards@manchester.gov.uk
New Year, New Challenges
Thinking of volunteering, why not look at the range of options with The
Generation Project Wythenshawe? Opportunities for people of all ages and
backgrounds. With structured training and support and you can volunteer
during the day, evenings or weekends. Main work is befriending older people
in Wythenshawe through home visits or regular telephone chats but you can
also help by hosting the breakfast club or community lunch. There are also
opportunities for admin roles and knitters to help make easy knit mascots
to sell to raise money for volunteer training. Contact Marie on 07875 286
866 or visit www.wythenshawegoodneighbours.
org.uk
Over 50 and looking for fun? Be a volunteer in a Chorlton or Old Moat
school
Primary schools need local volunteers aged over 50 to help with all sorts
of activities: hearing children read, helping with gardening, cooking,
maths, languages, sewing, and talking about experiences pupils may not be
familiar with. All sorts of skills, knowledge and experience are relevant.
Volunteers say it’s a rewarding way of contributing to their communities.
Intergen can help you get a DBS (CRB) check and match you with what needs
doing. More info available at www.intergen.org.uk or contact Estelle on
07946 761 785, email estelle.longmore@intergen.org.
uk
Calling all singers! If you’ve ever wanted to sing in a choir now is your
chance…..
The Halle has launched a new Community Choir which is based in Ancoats but
welcomes singers from across the city. There is no audition, no need to
read music, no need to book, and a lot of fun and sense of achievement. The
singing is led by the fantastic Stuart Overington, Director of the Halle
Youth Training Choir and the Halle Corporate Choir Competition. The next
sessions will be 7.30 to 9.00pm, at St Michael’s on George Leigh St, M4 5DG
on Sunday 8, 15 and 22 of March. The cost for all three sessions is £10 (to
include refreshments), with a reduced charge if you can only come to one or
two of the slots. For further details, contact David at
david.roberts@halle.co.uk or 07786 681 893.
Would you like to become a Cancer Hero?
The NHS is looking for individuals or community groups to act as
ambassadors for the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme. They are asking for
your help to promote bowel cancer awareness and the importance of bowel
cancer screening across Greater Manchester. Full training is provided. If
you think you or your group could make a difference to your local community
by increasing their awareness of bowel cancer, contact Natalie Smale,
(Health Improvement Practitioner) natalie.smale@nhs.net or 0161 621 7125.
Volunteer Peer Mentor and Befriender
Manchester Carers Forum is looking for volunteers for the Peer Mentoring
and Befriending Project, to visit carers on a one to one basis and provide
flexible support. You will be able to signpost to local services which may
be of benefit to the carer, making them aware of the support available and
help prevent isolation.
Experience of caring in a non-professional capacity is required. For
further information please contact Jackie Moran on 0161 819 2226 or email
jackie@manchestercarersforum.
org.uk
Free six-week wellbeing and stress management courses across Manchester for
people living with diabetes or heart disease
This course is specifically designed for anyone with diabetes or a
long-term heart condition who wants to learn to manage stress better and
tackle difficulties that they might face now, or in the future. Sessions
run for two hours a week over six weeks, and are completely free. Courses
will run throughout 2015 at a variety of accessible venues across
Manchester. To find out more, or refer someone onto the course, contact
bahf@manchestermind.org or phone 07527 127 786 or visit the website and
download a form: http://manchestermind.org/
Building_a_Healthy_Future.php
Wellbeing Workshops – Free courses
Do you want to improve your mood or build yourself up?
Do you want to find out how food affects your mood or how to de-stress?
Do you want to sleep well or unwind your mind?
Do you have a couple of hours spare to find out how?
The workshops are run by trainers from the NHS and are for groups of 8 to
15 people. These workshops are held all over the Manchester area, but if
you are interested in joining the one in March at Anchor’s Trafalgar Court
in Whalley Range, please contact Elsa Thomsen on 0161 226 8259.
Free two-day Planned Retirement Course
Wednesday 25 February and Thursday 26 February
City centre venue
Run by Age UK Manchester and PRAGMA
If you need some help planning for a financially secure, fulfilling and
happy retirement come along to this two day course run by PRAGMA, part of
Age UK Manchester. Topics covered include; financial planning, tax in
retirement, wills, power of attorney, and the state pension. For more
details, or to book a free place, contact John Cotcher, email
john.cotcher@ageukmanchester.
org.uk or phone 0161 817 2351.
What’s On
Conferences and Seminars
Older people and sexual wellbeing: research, practice and educational
issues
From MICRA, Manchester Metropolitan University, the Association for
Education and Ageing (AEA) and Age UK
Friday 6 February 2015
Seminar 2 – 4pm, free networking lunch from 1pm
G306B, Jean McFarlane Building, The University of Manchester M13 9PL
Speakers:
Dr David Lee, Age UK Research Fellow, The University of Manchester –
‘Sexual health, quality of life and well-being among older people in
England’
Professor Josie Tetley, Professor in Nursing, Ageing and Long Term
Conditions, Manchester Metropolitan University – ‘Let’s talk about sex –
what do older men and women say about their sexual relations and sexual
activities’
Dr Sharron Hinchliff, Senior Lecturer in Social/Health Psychology, The
University of Sheffield – ‘Sexual health and well-being in middle and late
adulthood: current knowledge and future directions’
Human sexuality is a universal part of living but stereotypes of older
adults continue to ignore sexuality, and the question of how important
sexual health and fulfilment is to overall health and wellbeing has been
largely neglected. There is a view that the sexual health of older people,
particularly in terms of defining ‘normal’ versus ‘abnormal’, has become
overly medicalised, focussing on the physiological mechanisms of
‘dysfunction’ and neglecting the potential importance of social and
behavioural factors. This seminar will explore some of the current issues
around sexual lifestyles and ageing, examining how sexual health issues
contribute to wellbeing in later life, what factors older men and women
specifically identify as impacting on their sexual activities and
relationships, and future directions for research and practice.
Register online for this free event
Events Coming Up
New Year Concert, Saturday 31 January, Christ Church (West Didsbury)
The Cavendish Singers will perform the ‘Choral Suite’ from Karl Jenkins’
“Armed Man” as well as Faure’s mesmerising ‘Canticle de Jean Racine’ and
Mozart’s illustrious motet, ‘Ave Verum Corpus’. The Bernstein Clarinet
Quintet will play a wonderful mix of Classical and Blues, including
Handel’s ‘Water Music’ and Glen Miller’s famed ‘Moonlight Serenade’. Other
players will also feature. Contact Alice on 0161 236 5744, email
anicolay@freedomfromtorture.
org. Tickets can be bought on the door or
www.freedomfromtorture.org/
events/8207
The Sensory War: 1914-2014 Exhibition and discussion tours
Sunday 1, 8, 15 February 11am – 12noon
Manchester Art Gallery, Moseley Street, Manchester M2 3JL
Take a tour of our latest exhibition ‘The Sensory War: 1914-2014’. A team
of volunteer guides will introduce this extensive exhibition, which
explores artists’ interpretations of war from World War One to the present
day. This tour will also include discussion of the art works. Meet at the
entrance to the exhibition on the first floor.
English Corner: Use art and objects to practice English
Tuesday 3 February, 1 – 2.30pm at Manchester Museum
Wednesday 11 February, 1 – 2.30pm at Manchester Art Gallery
Thursday 19 February, 6.30 – 8pm at Manchester Art Gallery
English Corner is for people who are learning to speak English. Our English
teacher leads activities that will help people to practise their speaking
and listening skills, whilst exploring artworks and collections on display.
It’s free. No need to book, just meet Lisa at the Information desk.
Please get in touch with Ruth Edson on 0161 235 8877 or email
r.edson@manchester.gov.uk for more information.
Dementia Friendly Communities comes to Manchester in Hulme and New Moston
Open Event at the New Moston Club, 64 Parkfield Road North, New Moston M40
3RQ
Tuesday 3 February, 1.30 – 3.30pm
Whether you are a carer or living with dementia yourself, or you would like
to help by volunteering to develop your neighbourhood into a Dementia
Friendly Community, now is the time to get in touch with the Dementia
Friendly Communities Greater Manchester (DFCGM) team. Pop in to this Open
Event where the project will agree priorities and recruit a local steering
group. DFCGM runs also Dementia Friends session for local shops and
businesses. To find out more please contact the Dementia Friendly
Communities team on 0161 962 4788, email DFCGM@alzheimers.org.uk or visit
the website www.alzheimers.org.uk/DFCGM
Together Manchester Film Club: MCA, Harpurhey
Friday 6 February at 2pm
The Together Manchester project shows films which give a positive image of
older people, and is to an audience of all ages. The next screening is
Babe (a beautiful feature film comedy about a farmer and his pig). The
screening is at the Manchester Communications Academy in Harpurhey at
1.50pm for 2pm screening on Friday 6th February, and is free.
See http://mca.realsmartcloud.com/
category/contact-us. All welcome.
George Julian Harney: The Last of the Chartist Leaders
Saturday 7 February, 2.30 – 4pm
People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER
Author and lecturer Dr David Goodway will lead a talk on the great
Chartist, George Julian Harney (1817-1897). He will be discussing Harney’s
extraordinary life and career as an activist, journalist and Chartist
leader. The talk will be held in the Labour History Archive and Study
Centre where a portion of Harney’s library is held. Suitable for adults and
young people. Booking required via Eventbrite –
http://harneytalk.eventbrite.
co.uk. For further information, please contact
the museum on 0161 838 9190 or info@phm.org.uk
Philosophy Café: Combining art and philosophy
Tuesday 10 February, 10.30am – 12pm
Thursday 26 February, 6 – 8pm
Manchester Art Gallery, Moseley Street, Manchester M2 3JL
The Philosophy Café at Manchester Art Gallery is an informal discussion
session, meeting twice a month. Each session starts with looking at a
piece of art linked to the topic. Absolutely everyone is welcome; the only
requirement is a willingness to be open and friendly toward others’ points
of view. No need to book. Just turn up and meet Sue/Peter at the gallery
information desk. For more information please contact: Ruth Edson on 0161
235 8877 or email r.edson@manchester.gov.uk
Hands on History
Wednesdays 11 and 18 February, 1 – 3pm
People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER
Get hands on and find out more about what life was life during World War I
on our object handling table. Part of First World War Centenary Programme.
Family Friendly activity, suitable for all ages. No booking required, drop
in activity. For further information, please contact the museum on 0161 838
9190 or info@phm.org.uk
Something Blue: Wedding fashions 1914-2014 tour for blind and partially
sighted visitors and their friends
Thursday 12 February, 10.30 – 12pm followed by tea and coffee social
Gallery of Costume Platt Hall Rusholme Manchester M14 5LL
Join the Gallery of Costume to explore hundred years of bridal fashion from
the Gallery’s collections. The tour will include some object handling and
a tour of the current exhibition ‘Something Blue: Wedding fashions
1914-2014’. The tour will be supported with audio description of the art
works by Anne Hornsby.
LGBT History Festival
Sunday 15 February, 10am – 5pm
People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER
Part of the First National Festival of LGBT History hosted by the city of
Manchester. Bring along your objects, artefacts and archives to a Show and
Tell session, with experts on hand to help you find out more. The opening
weekend of the “Election!” exhibition will provide the backdrop to finding
out more about the political side of LGBT history, with talks, tours and
the opportunity to delve into our archive. Families can get hands on with
craft activities and storytelling. Full programme to be announced, check
back for full details. The full programme will have events suitable for all
ages, from under 5s to adults. For further information, please contact the
museum on 0161 838 9190 or info@phm.org.uk
Making Conversation
Thursday 19 February, 1 – 4pm
Manchester Art Gallery, Moseley Street, Manchester M2 3JL
These workshops involve talking about and making art by using all of your
senses. The sessions are audio described and all materials and
refreshments are provided. Please book in advance, phone 0161 235 8888.
Age Friendly Thursday Late: Bright Old Things
Thursday 19 February, 6 – 9pm
The Whitworth Art Gallery, Oxford Road, Manchester, M15 6ER
The gallery and reopening exhibitions will be open to all on this special
evening, featuring a performance from Golden Voices, plus Pete Roberts from
Manchester’s legendary Twisted Wheel club will be playing records
throughout the evening. Concluding the end of ‘Bright Old Things season at
Selfridges there are two charging talks. Reopening exhibition artist Jonnie
Shand Kydd will be in conversation with the Whitworth’s Head of Collections
David Morris discussing his career, the YBA generation and his exhibitions.
Anne Karpf, writer, sociologist and recent winner of the best independent
voice on older people’s issues will also be in discussion with David Evans,
writer of the hugely successful blog ‘Grey Fox’, the pair will examine the
aging process. A ticket to the talks is £10, which includes a tasting plate
and a glass of wine or soft drink. Booking is via Selfridges & Co, please
call 0161 838 0610 or visit customer services on LG at Selfridges Exchange
Square.
Piccadilly Symphony Orchestra Concert
Friday 20 February
Manchester Communication Academy, Silchester Drive, Harpurhey M40 8NT
MCA once again welcome the Piccadilly Symphony Orchestra on 20 February at
7.30pm. The 80-piece orchestra will play musical pieces from Ibert (flute
concerto), Prokofiev (Peter and the Wolf) and Tchaikovsky (Symphony No 4).
This is an amazing opportunity to see orchestral music in your community.
Tickets are £2 to North Manchester residents and are available by
contacting Louise Hewitt on 0161 202 0161.
Snapshot on Campaigning Women
Monday 2 March, 12.30 – 1.30pm
People’s History Museum, Left Bank, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3ER
Did you know the museum holds an archive of over 95,000 photographs? Go
behind the scenes and delve into unique photo collections, the Labour Party
photograph collection and the Communist Party of Great Britain photograph
collection. In this lunchtime drop in session, browse through photographs
on the theme of campaigning women and uncover history through the lens.
Part of Wonder Women Radical Manchester. Suitable for adults and young
people. Booking required via Eventbrite – http://socw.eventbrite.co.uk. For
further information, please contact the museum on 0161 838 9190 or
info@phm.org.uk
Ambition for Ageing Programme – engagement events
As part of GMCVO’s £10m BIG Lottery Fund supported Ambition for Ageing
programme, GMCVO will be commissioning a series of ‘Local Delivery
Leads’ (LDLs) in eight local authority areas across Greater Manchester.
LDLs will be responsible for the local management of the programme,
engaging with communities and supporting older people to make positive
changes to their local areas utilising a community development approach. In
advance of the formal procurement phase, GMCVO is looking to engage
potential providers and other stakeholders, including older people living
in the selected wards (a list of which available through the link below). A
series of events will be held in February and March 2015 in order to:
• Inform potential providers of GMCVO’s commissioning intentions
• Enable stakeholders to influence the service specification
• Help GMCVO refine its approach where required
For further information and booking, please see details here
http://www.gmcvo.org.uk/
ambition-ageing-provider-
stakeholder-events-
februarymarch-2015
Advice, Support and Information
Do you find computers confusing?
Manchester Advice Alliance offers sessions for people who need support
using computers to get online and fill in forms, find information/advice
online, and a range of other online tasks. These sessions are held at in
Wythenshawe at Wythenshawe Oasis, the Forum Library and YPSF Signpost; in
Gorton at Rainbow Haven and The Oasis Centre, and will soon open in
Cheetham Hill at the Welcome Centre on Brentfield Avenue. If these sessions
could be useful to you and you’d like more information, please contact Rosi
Hunter, email rosi.hunter@manchestercab.org, phone 0161 203 2515.
Gorton Day Centre
This Age UK Manchester Day Centre is somewhere for older people with a
mental health diagnosis to come for a hot meal, entertainment and
companionship. The Centre is open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm and provides
transport (within a certain radius), breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, trips
out, entertainment and activities for a small charge. Places are currently
available in the Day Centre. All enquiries please contact: Jean Lamb on
jean.lamb@ageukmanchester.org.
uk or Julie Hussey on
julie.hussey@ageukmanchester.
org.uk, phone 0161 223 6062. Or alternatively
just call in at Gorton Day Centre, The Melland Centre, Melland Road,
Gorton, M18 7QU.
Growing Together Project
Debdale Eco Centre is working in partnership with Anchor Housing, running
horticultural activities in Anchor schemes in Whalley Range, Chorlton and
Cheetham. The project is aimed at reducing social isolation and loneliness
and sessions are open to any Anchor residents and local residents over 50.
You do not need to be green fingered and the activities are fun and wide
ranging. Just pop in for a cup of tea, or for further details please ring
Helen on 07954 362 896. Details of weekly sessions at
https://www.
manchestercommunitycentral.
org/reducing-social-isolation-
and-loneliness-grant-fund-
2014-2015
Food Growing Space Available – Miles Platting & Ancoats
The Miles Platting Community Gardens are located on Chippenham Road,
Ancoats and Holland Street in Miles Platting. Each garden contains raised
beds which are available on loan free of charge for growing your own fruit
and vegetables – only a £5 key deposit is required. Full beds and half beds
available. If you want to be part of a growing community with full access
to all the tools and equipment you will need, get in touch. Contact Vicki
Greer at Adactus Housing Association on 0161 203 2600 / 07739 297 124,
email victoria.greer@adactushousing.
co.uk for more information and/or to
view the gardens.
New Year New Look
The Generation Project is now a community interest company,
Captain J R Greenhalgh Legacy C.I.C.
Nothing has changed, other than our status, and this group is still trading
as The Generation Project, continuing to befriend older people of
Wythenshawe though home visits and telephone befriending and offering
social and creative activities too. Volunteers host a breakfast club at The
Tudor Tavern Peel Hall Road every Tuesday from 10.30am til noon and a
community lunch every Thursday at The Firbank Pub Firbank Road Baguley from
12.30pm til 2.30pm. A Macmillan connection, dementia friendly and open to
carers and family. Contact Marie on 07875 286 866 or visit
www.wythenshawegoodneighbours.
org.uk
Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service – Stay Safe This Winter
Temperatures have dropped and the dark nights are here. With this comes
greater fire risks, as people start using electric heaters, light candles
and start cooking more hot food. There are also extreme dangers when around
ice and open water during the winter months. The Safe4Winter Campaign
provides comprehensive winter safety advice for households, older people,
parents and carers. Visit www.safe4winter.com for more information.
Manchester and Salford Ramblers Group
Manchester and Salford Ramblers are part of the National Ramblers
Association and offer a varied program of walks around the Manchester and
Salford area throughout the year as well as a lively social calendar and
weekends away, by joining your local Ramblers Group you will also be
supporting continued access to your local countryside. Please contact
Secretary Mags Metcalf on 0161 839 3865 or visit our website
www.
manchesterandsalfordramblers.
org.uk for more details.
Do you need a wheelchair?
The British Red Cross helps to keep people mobile through our mobility aids
service, which provides short term loans of equipment, including
wheelchairs, walking frames and commodes, at outlets across Greater
Manchester. A £20 refundable deposit is returned when the equipment is
brought back. The service is funded through user donations. To find out
more please ring one of Red Cross’s centres: If you live in Bolton, Bury,
Oldham, Rochdale or Wigan please phone 01772 707 300. If you live in
Manchester, Salford, Stockport, Tameside or Trafford please phone 01925 229
740.
Holistic Therapies at African Caribbean Care Group
Tuesdays Wednesdays and Fridays
Claremont Resource Centre, Hulme M15 5FS
Subsidised therapy sessions are available including body massage,
reflexology, fully clothed seated massage, manicures and pedicures. For
bookings and pricing information call 0161 226 6334, email
admin@accg.org.uk
People First Dementia Support Service
Free support available to people aged over 55 living in Manchester who are
exhibiting signs of dementia, memory loss or confusion. The service
provides support in a range of areas including independent living, claiming
benefits, assistance in liaising with other agencies including health and
social care. To make a referral or obtain further information about the
project, please contact People First Dementia Support at People First
Housing Association on 0161 235 6900 or visit our website at
http://www.peoplefirsthousing.
co.uk/support.html
Help For Depressed or Anxious People Regardless of Age
Too often treatable conditions such as depression and anxiety get missed as
people get older. Instead depression and anxiety is seen as due to ill
health or an inevitable part of aging. But its not, and our service is here
to help. We work with adults of any age and offer Cognitive Behavioural
Therapy. This is an evidence based therapy and and has been proven to be an
effective treatment for depression and anxiety conditions regardless of a
person’s age. Please refer to the Primary Care Mental Health Team on 0161
882 2400.
Books to Go: Home Delivery Service
Books to Go provides a home delivery service for Manchester residents who
have limited mobility, a visual impairment or any difficulty leaving their
home and visiting their local library. When you join you will be asked if
you prefer audio books, large print, DVDs or ordinary print. Also what
types of book you enjoy. Experienced staff will choose books to your
preference and deliver them to your own home free of charge. Ask at your
local library or call 0161 227 3800.
Care and Repair Handyperson Service
Manchester Care and Repair’s handyperson service is available for small
works to help an older person keep their home safe and warm. The service isfree and is usually able to respond with a couple of weeks (the service
does not cover the cost of materials). Call 0161 872 5500, 9am – 4pm. For
more information visit
http://www.careandrepair-
manchester.org.uk/manchester-
services/handy-help/
Home Repairs Support
For larger repair and energy efficiency works, Care and Repair can direct
you to vetted contractors and/or help older owner occupiers to access the
Council’s interest-free and low cost loan assistance. Call 0161 872 5500,
9am – 4pm. For more information, visit
http://www.careandrepair-
manchester.org.uk/manchester-
services/hrst/
Donate Your Unwanted Furniture and Support ‘Care & Repair’
Thinking of buying new furniture but don’t know what to do with your old
items? Moving home and need to get rid of anything? Care & Repair have
teamed up with CT Home to offer you free collection of your quality used
furniture and household appliances. If you are interested in donating,
please call 0161 745 7588 and quote Care & Repair. CT Home will collect
anywhere across Greater Manchester and sell the furniture at their
warehouse in Salford.
Care & Repair Energy Support
Manchester Care & Repair has recently expanded its BIG Lottery funded
Independent Living Support Service by recruiting an Energy Support Worker.
Visiting clients in their own homes, they will provide advice on improving
the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of the home, as well as
addressing any fuel poverty issues. If you’re struggling to pay for your
fuel costs and/or would like some energy efficiency advice, call 0161 872
5500 to enquire.
LINK TWO
LINK Good Neighbours is working in partnership with City South Housing,
Adactus Housing and LINK East to secure large CCG funding to start LINK
TWO. LINK TWO covers Moss Side, Whalley Range and Hulme. The project is
offering support through befriending, socialising at activities and
signposting to other agencies that may be able to assist. There’s also
volunteering opportunities. The Men’s Brunch Club is on Thursdays 10am-1pm
at Will Griffiths Court. Call Brian or Jane for more information on 0161
225 1064, see http://www.trinityhousecrc.
org.uk/link-project/
Do you need to make sure your home is safe and secure?
The Royal British Legions Handyvan service, Poppy Calls, now undertakes a
series of FREE home checks for those who have served or are serving in the
Armed Forces and their dependants. The checks cover physical security
(checking locks to windows and doors), fire safety (checking for carbon
monoxide and smoke detectors) and winter warmth (checking for levels of
insulation). If any work is required as a result of these home checks, then
they are free to those on a Means Tested Benefit, or those aged 75 or over.
We also carry out a range of small household repairs and minor adaptations,
again this work is free to those over 75 or anyone on a Means Tested
Benefit. To find out more about the service, or if you wish to book your
free household checks call 0800 032 0306 or email
homesupportadmin@
britishlegion.org.uk
Ring and Ride
Ring and Ride is Greater Manchester`s door-to-door service for people of
all ages including children who find it difficult to use public transport.
Our fully accessible minibuses and professionally trained drivers will
assist you to get out and about with ease. You can make short, local
journeys for: shopping, work, school or college, health appointments,
social activities, places of worship etc. Before you book a journey with
Ring and Ride, you must be registered as a member. Registration is simple,
quick and free of charge. Just phone 0161 200 6011. Lines are open 8am –
10.30pm.
Regular Groups and Activities
Regular weekly event at Anchor’s Trafalgar Court, Whalley Range
Growing Together course – This is a course run by Debdale Eco-centre and
focuses on teaching people how to grow plants, herbs and vegetables. But
it’s also about healthy eating, ideas for new dishes and using herbs for
health enhancing reasons. It’s very informal, fun and interactive. You can
join one session or carry on coming. No charge. It’s every Monday at
10.30am until 12.30pm. If you are interested, please phone Elsa Thomsen on
0161 226 8259.
Are you over 50 with a visual impairment?
Henshaws monthly coffee mornings are a chance to get to know other people
with a VI in your area and share stories and coping mechanisms, and have a
laugh over a brew. Monthly meetings in South Manchester at the Wythenshawe
Forum (Simonsway, M22 5RX) on the second Wednesday of every month,
10.30am–12.30pm. Monthly meetings in North Manchester at the Avenue Library
& Learning Centre (Victoria Avenue East, Blackley, M9 6HW) on the last
Thursday of every month, 10.30am-12.30pm. If you are interested, please
contact Henshaws on 0161 872 1234.
Hear to Help
Hear to Help hold drop-in clinics for NHS hearing aids, so people can get
replacement tubing and batteries free. Clinics held at:
Longsight Library, 1st Wednesday of month 10am -12 pm
Gorton Library, 2nd Thursday of month 10am -12pm
Powerhouse Library, 2nd Tuesday of month 11am -1pm
St Margarets, Burnage, last Tuesday of month 12am – 2pm
Chorlton Good Neighbours, 1st Thursday of month 9.30 – 11.30am
Withington Methodist, 3rd Tuesday of month 11am – 1.30pm
Holy Trinity Church, 2nd Monday of month 10am – 12pm
Crossacres Community Resource Centre, 2nd Monday of month 1.30pm – 3.30pm
Didsbury Good Neighbours,Holt Pavilion,Didsbury Park 1stTuesday of month
10-15am till 11-45 am.
Please contact Diane Whitehead for more information, phone 0161 605 0853 or
email diane.whitehead@hearingloss.
org.uk
Do you have dementia? Or do you support someone with dementia?
Storybox Creative Cafe is a brand new reading group based at Beswick
Library, offering fun, creative activities designed especially for people
with demetia and their family and friends. Each session will use
imagination, stories and poetry as a starting point to inspire a range of
creative activities that are accessible for all, including music, creative
writing and art. These free sessions will run every Tuesday, 3 – 4pm in
February and March. To find out more please contact Liz on 07941 218 435 or
email info@smallthings.org.uk
Over 55 and want to learn Linedancing?
Monthly easy beginners linedance. Second Thursday every month at St
George’s Community Centre, Boswell Road, off Livesey Street Collyhurst.
Absolute beginners very welcome. Cost £2 includes light refreshments and a
raffle. Come and get fitter whilst having a laugh and a chat. Contact Diane
at Age UK Manchester, phone 07950 427 292 or email
diane.aronwich@
ageukmanchester.org.uk
Easy gentle-paced Health Walk
Come and join the Miles Platting Plodders every Wednesday morning 10.15am
at either Trinity Church Butler Street or Manchester Piccadilly. Suitable
for older people who like to walk slowly and enjoy the views. Cost is free
but sometimes there’s a charge for lunch or travel. For a full programme
of walks contact Diane at Age UK Manchester, phone 07950 427 292 or email
diane.aronwich@
ageukmanchester.org.uk
Lovely Grub Luncheon Club Openshaw
Over 55 and want a home cooked meal three times a week? Monday, Wednesday
and Friday 1pm at Age UK Day Centre, 10 Catherine Street, Openshaw,
Manchester, M11 1WF. Also after lunch on Mondays enjoy a regular programme
of talks or trips and Fridays a game of prize Bingo. Cost £3 for a two
course lunch and £1 for the afternoon activities. For full details contact
Diane at Age UK Manchester, 07950 427 292 or email
diane.aronwich@
ageukmanchester.org.uk
Dementia Friendly Communities – information courses for carers and a joint
programme for people living with dementia and their carers called SHARED
Every Monday 23 February to 23rd March inclusive: Carer course in New
Moston, 10am -12.30pm at NEPHRA HQ, 27 Parkfield Road North, New Moston M40
3TB
Every Wednesday from 20 May to 24 June inclusive: The SHARED programme in
Hulme will run at 10.00-14.30 every Wednesday in the Amani Centre, Moss
Lane East, Moss Side M16 7DG
Every Wednesday from 7 July to 5 August inclusive: The SHARED programme in
New Moston, 10am – 2.30pm, in the New Moston Club, 64 Parkfield Road North,
New Moston M40 3RQ.
To find out more please contact the Dementia Friendly Communities team on
0161 962 4788, email DFCGM@alzheimers.org.uk or visit the website
www.alzheimers.org.uk/DFCGM
Seated Tai Chi
Every Thursday afternoon 2pm at Age UK Day Centre, 10 Catherine Street,
Openshaw, Manchester M11 1WF. A great way to enjoy all the benefits of Tai
Chi whilst sitting down. Ideal for older people with balance or mobility
issues. Cost £2 includes refreshments. Contact Diane Age UK Manchester
07950 427 292 or email diane.aronwich@
ageukmanchester.org.uk
Broomfield Court’s Knitting Group and Coffee Morning
Do you love to knit or would you like to learn, or even come along and have
a natter? Join Broomfield Court’s Knitting Group on Monday mornings from
10.30 to 12.30 pm. Also Coffee Mornings on Thursdays from 11am, 50p charge
which goes to charity. Address is 121 Barlow Moor Road, Didsbury, contact
Julie Potter for more information on 0161 434 7560.
Inspire Philo Café at The Inspire Centre, Levenshulme
New group starting Tuesday 3rd February 2015 at 1pm
This is an informal discussion group where you can express your views and
ideas on a chosen subject, in a safe and friendly space. No need to book,
just turn up on the day. For further info contact Sue at Age UK Manchester
0161 833 3944 or sue.nzilani@ageukmanchester.
org.uk
Take Notice
First Tuesday of each month. Next sessions: 3 February, 3 March, 7 April,
12.15 and 1pm
Manchester Art Gallery, Moseley Street, Manchester M2 3JL
Take Notice is a 30 minute free wellbeing session where visitors are guided
in looking at and engaging with art using Mindfulness-based techniques.
Recent studies have shown that regularly practicing Mindfulness can reduce
stress, improve memory and concentration and lift your mood. No previous
experience required. Free, no need to book.
Dance for Everyone
Wednesdays 10.30am -12.30. (NB No class 18 February – half term)
Free taster session at the Large Hall Union Chapel Wellington Road
Fallowfield
A dance class for any age and level of fitness – you will love this
informal and creative class that utilises every kind of music from Handel
to Ragtime, World music to opera. Lots of different dance styles and great
atmosphere. Try everything from tap to reggae, circle dancing to free form.
All ages welcome. For more details contact Hazel Roy on 0161 434 5021,
email hazelroy46@hotmail.com
Friendship and Activity Group (for people living with mild to moderate
dementia)
Thursdays, 10.30am -12.30pm at the Holt Pavillion,Didsbury Park
This group is run by Didsbury Good Neighbours and Together Dementia Support
and features discussions, a range of games, gardening and art and craft
activities – all at a gentle pace where everyone is enabled to participate.
Visits can be arrange to any interested individual to tell them more and
encourage them to try it! For more information phone Didsbury Good
Neighbours on: 07749 504 298 or T.D.S. on 07854 335 890.
Friendship and Activity Group (for people living with mild to moderate
dementia)
Mondays, 2 – 4pm at the Amani Centre on Moss Lane East, M16 7DG
This group is now running weekly and offers a range of activities based on
the interests of the members. There is a range of games – snooker, darts,
skittles, indoor bowling – as well as music, poetry, baking, art and craft.
For more information contact Sally at Together Dementia Support on 07854
335 890.
50+ Fridays 2.30 – 4pm (£1) at Manchester Communication Academy
Manchester Communication Academy, Silchester Drive, Harpurhey M40 8NT
Every Friday MCA host an activity afternoon for the people over 50.
Activities available include; indoor curling, badminton, table tennis and
the gym. Alternatively, dominoes, cards and chess are available. Each
session is a £1 and this includes tea, coffee and a biscuit.
Close Knit: Last Saturday of the month
Next session 28 February 2 -4pm
This is a great opportunity to knit in a relaxed sociable atmosphere.
Beginners and more experienced knitters welcome. Each month Lucy Burscough
leads a session inspired by the Gallery of Costume collection. Drop in, no
need to book, all materials provided. For further details contact the
Gallery on 0161 245 7245.
Highlights tours
Every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 2 – 3pm
Manchester Art Gallery, Moseley Street, Manchester M2 3JL
Join a guided tour of the gallery and discover the stories behind the art
works and the building. Learn about the history of the gallery and find out
more about art. Each guide has their own style and choice of art works, so
no two tours are the same. Free, no need to book, just turn up.
Art Bites Discussions
Every Wednesday 12.30 – 1pm
Manchester Art Gallery, Moseley Street, Manchester M2 3JL
Art Bites is about chatting with other people about art. Each week the
session focuses on two contrasting art works on display at the gallery.
It’s a great way to find out what others think and express your own
opinions about art.
Free, no need to book, just turn up.
Friday Football for people over 50
Rushford Park Sports Complex, Slade Lane, Manchester M13 0GW
The walking version of the beautiful game. Stay active, fit and healthy in
a fun, social and safe environment. Fridays, 10 – 11am. £2.50 per session.
For more information call 0800 032 1806, email
info@littlesportscoaching.co.
uk
Barlow Moor Community Centre regular activities
Barlow Moor Community Centre offers a wide range of social, craft and
indoor sports activities for people over 60. With services running four
days a
week including breakfast clubs Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, craft and
card making groups, social and games clubs throughout the week. The centre
also runs a Healthy Cooking course in partnership with South Manchester
Health Living network. Please contact Elaine Metz for more information on
0161 446 4805 or email Elaine@barlowmoorca.co.uk, or visit
www.barlowmoorca.co.uk
Age-friendly Manchester Locality Networks (formerly VOP Networks)
We have successfully rebranded our locality Networks who all share a common
goal of developing Age Friendly communities and neighbourhood. The basic
idea behind each Age Friendly Network remains the same, in that partners
work together in a defined geographical area to improve services for, and
importantly, with, older people.
Each Network has, or is in the process of, developing its own Age Friendly
Action Plan which includes priority actions which covers:
Promoting services and sharing information with older people
Listening to and consulting with older people
Strengthening the network to ensure effective joint working
Reporting (Ward Coordination, Health and Well Being Plans etc)
Delivery of Local Projects
Age-friendly Network Contact Details
Networks are supported by colleagues working in localities across the city:
Harpurhey and Moston AFM Network
Contact Chris Sedgwick on 0161 234 5106 or by emailing
c.sedgwick@manchester.gov.uk
Higher Blackley and Charlestown AFM Network
Contact Andrew Jones on 0161 234 5107 or by emailing
a.jones8@manchester.gov.uk
Cheetham and Crumpsall AFM Network
Contact Janet Newell on 0161 234 5109 or by emailing
j.newell@manchester.gov.uk
Miles Platting and Newton Heath AFM Network (inc. Miles Platting, Ancoats
and Collyhurst and Newton Heath)
Contact Isobel Richards on 0161 203 2900 or by emailing
Isobel.Richards@
adactushousing.co.uk
Beswick, Clayton and Openshaw AFM Network
Contact Tracey Annette on 234 4299 or by emailing
t.annette@manchester.gov.uk
Chorlton & Chorlton Park AFM Network
Contact Devon Poyser on 0161 448 4200 or by emailing
D.Poyser@southwayhousing.co.uk
Didsbury and Burnage AFM Network
Contact Devon Poyser on 0161 448 4200 or by emailing
D.Poyser@southwayhousing.co.uk
Withington and Old Moat AFM Network
Contact Devon Poyser on 0161 448 4200 or by emailing
D.Poyser@southwayhousing.co.uk
Age Friendly Whalley Range
Contact Rebecca Bromley on 0161 234 4049 or by emailing
r.bromley@manchester.gov.uk
Wythenshawe VOP Network
Contact Patrick Hanfling on 0161 234 4188 or email
p.hanfling@manchester.gov.uk
Our AFM Locality Approach is beginning to pick up a pace once again and we
happy to be involved in conversations about developing consistent
approaches across Manchester with strategic teams covering each SRF area.
Look out for further updates in future bulletins about plans to develop
network structures across Central Manchester. If you are interested in
joining any of our existing Networks please contact Tracey Annette on 0161
234 4299 or email t.annette@manchester.gov.uk
The Age-friendly Manchester Team: Here with help and advice
Established in 2003 as VOP, the AFM partnership aims to improve the quality
of life of older people in Manchester. By creating the right partnerships
across the statutory, community and voluntary sectors and by co-producing
projects and programmes with older residents, the programme has become
nationally recognised as leaders in the field of ageing policy. The AFM
team is part of Public Health Manchester:
Tracey Annette: Community Engagement Officer,
Tel. 0161 234 4299, t.annette@manchester.gov.uk
Rebecca Bromley: Project Assistant,
Tel. 0161 234 4049, r.bromley@manchester.gov.uk
Patrick Hanfling: Programme Coordinator,
Tel. 0161 234 4188, p.hanfling@manchester.gov.uk
Louise Lanigan (Hope): Project Manager,
Tel. 0161 234 1366, l.hope@manchester.gov.uk
Paul McGarry: Senior Strategy Manager,
Tel. 0161 234 3503, p.mcgarry@manchester.gov.uk
The post Age-friendly Manchester E-bulletin Issue 111 – February 2015 appeared first on whalleyrange.org.