Burren Court Golden Age Community Group.( Social, community & intergenerational programmes)

Description

The Golden Age Community group was established two years ago & caters for older adults from the Ballymun area. The club provides a vital social outlet for older adults with a wide range of social & community activities offered. Regular programmes include bingo, phone technology skills, chair based exercises, drama & arts & crafts.

The group also organises social & cultural trips to Mullingar & has developed important links to other relevant community groups in the area including the Poppintree community centre, Erin’s Isle GAA club for tea dances & the Dublin City Council weekly Walk in Poppintree Park.

Intergenerational activities & the importance of developing positive relationships with local younger people is reflected in grandparents day initiatives, a singing programme with Ballymun secondary school & a gardening project with a local youth service. Weekly breakfast mornings provide an important social outlet for isolated older adults.

The group has an active committee of 6 volunteers who co-ordinate the various community programmes/initiatives, 40 older adults regularly attend the weekly programmes. The group is represented on the North West Older Persons Council & plays an active role in advocating the views, needs & interests of older adults.

Aim of Initiative

The aim of the initiative is to provide a vital social, cultural, & social & wellbeing outlet for isolated older people in the Ballymun area.

Who is it aimed at

The initiative is aimed at older adults in the Ballymun area.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Identifying & accepting the needs of Older Adults
2. Volunteerism & support of the local community
3. Offering a diverse range of activities, services & programmes to meet the needs of Older Adults

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Lack of transportation for Older Adults; this can be an issue for participation at the Burren court venue for weekly programmes & activities & also for trips to social & cultural venues.
2. Lack of routine & engagement with services post covid is a challenge for older adults.
3. Lack of availability of tutors for activities i.e. drama & arts & crafts can be an issue & a challenge.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. To maintain & to develop current programmes, activities & services.
2. Older people to increase confidence, personal development & self esteem from membership & engagement with the group.
3. Implement more intergenerational community programmes & initiatives to increase mutual understanding & awareness.