A STALYBRIDGE project to support and create lasting change for older people has celebrated its success.
Ageing in Place Pathfinder was set up by Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to make sure the voices of the elder generations are heard and valued in the places they live.
And Tameside’s – based at the community hub in Ridge Hill – has toasted the results.
Among its achievements are the formation of Ridgehill Together CIO, a new Charitable Incorporated Organisation designed to sustain and build on the work of Ageing in Place and the Big Local, ensuring the community’s voice and needs remain at the heart of future developments.
It has also trained six Health Care Champions, thanks to a £10,000 award from the GMCA’s Live Well programme.
They will help bring NHS and local health services closer to residents, supporting the national drive for community-based care.
Memorial trees, edible walkways and age-friendly planters have transformed local green spaces from various successful funding applications.
So far, 147 trees have been planted and more than 50 jars of honey have been produced from community-run beehives.
A community bike repair scheme and bike library has enabled dozens of residents to access affordable, sustainable transport and the ‘Trishaw’ project – part of the international ‘Cycling Without Age’ movement – will soon offer older residents the chance to enjoy the outdoors with volunteer cyclists.
‘Song for Ridge’, delivered with Tameside Council’s Music Service, has also brought people of all ages together through music and celebration.
The project has brought together partners including The Big Local, Action Together, Tameside Council’s Population Health and Jigsaw Support, along with local residents, to create lasting change for the health and wellbeing of older people and the wider community.
Residents have also been involved in activities ranging from digital training and exercise classes to social events, cookery courses and writing a community newsletter.
Ridgehill Together CIO will now take forward this legacy, with ongoing support from partners.
Tameside Council’s executive member for adult social care, Cllr John Taylor, said: “It’s incredible to see the positive difference Ageing in Place Pathfinder has made in Ridge Hill in just three years.
“By working in partnership with residents and as organisations, we can truly make a difference in our communities.
“This project is a powerful example of creating strong and connected communities, where people are supported to live long, healthy and fulfilled lives in the place they call home.’’
Christine, a Ridge Hill resident and volunteer, added: “There’s no need for people to sit at home bored.
“Our hub door is always open for a cup of tea and a slice of toast. It’s a great, welcoming place to come.”
Phil Brooke, Jigsaw Support’s Ageing in Place Community Engagement Worker, commented:
“We are proud of what has been achieved together
“The partnerships, projects, and new organisation we have built will ensure Ridge Hill continues to thrive as a place where people of all ages can live well and age well.
“It was really fitting that this year’s theme for International Day of Older People was “Celebrating the Power of Our Social Connections” as this perfectly reflected the spirit of the Ageing in Place initiative and the community’s commitment to building a more connected, healthy, inclusive Ridge Hill.”