Party time for older people after Celebrate funding
Older people living at independent living schemes in the Rhondda Cynon Taff are celebrating after £2,000 of funding from the Big Lottery Fund Celebrate programme.
Six out of ten people surveyed, by YouGov for the Big Lottery Fund, say they cannot remember ever coming together to celebrate with their community. The Big Lottery Fund want to help change this with grants of between £250 and £2,000 available for one off events that celebrate communities.
Newydd Housing Association tenants are lucky enough to have gained £2000 from the Big Lottery Fund for a Welsh heritage themed party and awards ceremony to celebrate the hard work of tenants in their close-knit communities. The celebration will include accolades such as neighbour of the year, commitment to social inclusion and digitally improved tenant and an opportunity to dine with family, friends, staff and care providers.
Joan Chicken, tenant at Alltwen independent living scheme in Abernant near Aberdare said, “I was elated when I found out, it means we can all have a fabulous time celebrating. We love it when we get together with tenants from other schemes, we’re really looking forward to it.”
Gareth Williams, Celebrate Programme Manager for the Big Lottery Fund in Wales, said: “Celebrate is having a positive impact throughout Wales. Money is helping people across Wales to celebrate what’s most important to them in a way that will bring them together to build stronger communities.”
170 tenants live across Newydd’s five independent livings schemes ranging from 55 to 100 years old. The apartments at the schemes are designed for single people and couples aged 55 and over, or for those aged 50 and above that are registered disabled or receiving permanent medication for an illness. With a member of staff on site during working hours, independent living is an ideal housing option for those who seek a secure environment but wish to retain their independence. If you would like further information, please go to www.newydd.co.uk or contact Dina Williams 02920 005472.
