A formal partnership has been established to make the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough more inclusive for older residents.

The Causeway Coast and Glens Age Friendly Partnership brings together organisations from across the area, including the Borough Council. It will provide strategic leadership for the local Age Friendly Action Plan, ensuring the voices of older people shape services and policies.

At its first meeting under new governance arrangements, Councillor Tanya Elder was confirmed as Chair. She said the partnership would help build communities where people are supported to live well, stay connected and age positively.

The current Age Friendly Strategy and Action Plan contains 37 actions, and progress is already underway on many fronts. Examples include intergenerational activities during Global Intergenerational Week, a Walking Football World Cup Council Tournament to boost health and social connection, and a Walk, Talk, Tea and Treats event to reduce social isolation. An Older People’s Forum allows residents to influence local priorities directly.

Stephanie Scott, the Council’s Age Friendly Officer, said the partnership’s strength lies in the commitment of its member organisations and, crucially, the contributions of older people themselves. She noted that positive progress is evident and that new initiatives will build on existing work.

Partner organisations include U3A, COAST, CRUN, NACN, BCRC, the Mae Murray Foundation, Dementia Concern Causeway, North Coast Community Transport, the Causeway Volunteer Centre, Living Well Moyle, Rathlin Development and Community Association, RBID, Alzheimer’s Society, Connect North LW, Age NI, the Western and Northern Health and Social Care Trusts, the PSNI, Northern Regional College, Ulster University, Linking Generations NI and the NI Housing Executive.