The Woodside Plymouth

This project is a lovely opportunity to bring joy to older members of our community. Join us to decorate and refurbish three rooms at Age UK Plymouth’s Active Ageing Centre on Plymouth’s Barbican. Older people will gather here to meet new friends, take part in enjoyable activities and learn new skills in a calm and friendly environment. The Active Ageing Centre story began when people told us they wanted a ‘One Stop Shop’ with lots of different opportunities all in one place. That's why we're creating a hub where visitors can take part in health and well-being activities, find caring information and advice and (most importantly!) meet new people and grow their social networks. Our group is determined that nobody should feel lonely or isolated, whatever their age. Sadly, one million older people say they haven’t spoken to friends, family or neighbours for over a month. We're passionate about solving this - and you can help us! Sign up to our event to turn three outdated rooms into a wonderful gathering space. Local community groups will have somewhere to pop in for a coffee and a chat, use our free wifi and meet with our health, well-being and welfare advisors. It has been tough gaining momentum for the refurbishment so far, but with your help we can really transform our centre into a special place to spend time. Together, we'll turn two old rooms into welcoming spaces with coffee tables and squishy cushions - perfect for social activities and community group meetings. Plus, we'll convert a third room into a shiny new IT suite for learning and pleasure. What's more, our IT training, information and advice is totally free to anyone aged over 50. We'll offer older people new opportunities to learn about computers and other types of technology. The refurbishment project will empower our visitors to discover the freedom that comes with using online services. They'll be able to book appointments, shop online to stay strong and healthy and perhaps even connect with distant loved ones. We really hope you can join us as part of Spark Something Good. Thanks to your helping hands, we'll be able to support lots more older people across Plymouth. In such a friendly and caring city, there's absolutely no reason why anyone should feel cut off from others. In time, this project will improve our older people's overall health and well-being. We'll see the change in confidence as they feel more connected, become more engaged with the world around and enjoy building relationships with like-minded people. We'll see you very soon to Spark Something Good together!