To mark World Elders’ Day, neighbourhood officers came together with Lord Mayor, Cllr Barbara Murray, at the Joseph Lappin Centre in Old Swan to celebrate elderly residents and recognise the vital role they play in our community.
The event was more than a celebration – it was a space for older residents to share their voices, ideas, and experiences.
Our older community members carry a wealth of lived experience, insight, and wisdom about the places we live in. That’s why creating spaces where they can come together, socialise, and share their perspectives is so important.
At our Question Time style event, elderly residents gathered not only to connect with one another but also to engage in structured conversations with professionals from across sectors. This two-way exchange ensures:
- Older people feel heard with opportunities to express what matters most to them in their neighbourhoods
- Communities are strengthened as we learn directly from those who know local challenges and strengths best
- Services become more responsive with professionals gaining a clear understanding of the needs, priorities, and hopes of this vital population group
- By bridging social interaction with meaningful dialogue, we are moving closer to a future where services are not just delivered to older people but shaped with them
Last year’s community event made a real difference for local pensioners and residents. Attendees formed new friendships, discovered more social activities in their area, and received free laptops and Wi-Fi to help them access services online and stay connected.
The event also strengthened partnerships across the neighbourhood.
Police held drop-in sessions to improve safety and build trust, while Primary Care Networks delivered services directly in community centres, making healthcare more accessible.
Work also progressed on tackling speeding in residential areas, helping to make our streets safer for everyone.
Together, we’re building a more connected, supported, and safer community.
