This week, Councillor Mhairi Doyle, Sefton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, visited Bootle's Lock and Quay Community Pub to join one of the groups providing activities for people aged over 65, which are funded by the Council and co-ordinated by Sefton CVS.

Reducing social isolation

Thirteen projects for people aged 65 and over in Sefton are taking place thanks to the £45,000 of funding. Over 1,000 older people are expected to take part in th events, which aim to reduce social isolation, increase physical activity, learn new skills and gain more confidence and independence.

You can hear about Cllr Doyle’s visit in this video, as well as from Jane Dawe, the director of SAFE regeneration partnerships, which runs the Lock and Quay.

Tea Cakes and Tunes

Among the activities that have been funded are cookery and fitness classes for men at Sean’s Place in Bootle and art therapy and creative writing sessions for women at Swan Women’s Centre in Litherland. And, as Cllr Doyle mentions in the video, Tea Cakes and Tunes at Woodvale & Ainsdale Community Centre.

Enjoyable and fun

When the schemes were launched Cllr Doyle said: “All of these projects have been designed to deliver specific benefits to local people in the 65-plus age group as well as being enjoyable and fun.

“Getting together with others at sessions like this and learning new skills can help older people with their confidence, general mood and mental health. And they involve physical activities that are so important to keep us moving.

“These are all in line with Sefton Council’s aim of helping older people live independently and safely in their own homes.

Incredible voluntary, community and faith projects

Angela White Chief Executive of Sefton CVS said: “We are proud to support these incredible voluntary, community and faith projects that will make a positive difference in the lives of adults aged over 65 years across Sefton.

“By funding activities that promote social connections, wellbeing, and lifelong learning, we are helping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment.

“Together, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to stay active, engaged, and inspired.”