Monday 31 August 2015

Over 60? Would you like to develop drama skills, meet new people and have some fun?

WEDNESDAYS throughout September and February
11am - 1pm

The Royal Exchange Elders’ Company is starting a new series of Elders Monthly taster sessions.  

Open to anyone over 60, they are practical drama workshops for those who wish to develop drama skills and find out more about the process of making theatre.

To find out more contact Andy Barry on 0161 615 6792 or visit the website: www.royalexchange.co.uk/company-of-elders 

Would you like to volunteer? Interested in helping people in the community? The MVAP project may be for you.

MVAP is a partnership between Mind, Cheetham Hill Advice Centre, Manchester Refugee Support Network, Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit and the Young Peoples Support Foundation. The project provides excellent quality volunteering opportunities in advice activities across all our organisations.


Volunteer Roles include:

Adviser, Advice Support Worker, Immigration Advice Support Worker, Reception, Interpreter, Training Assistant, Volunteer Recruitment Assistant.

Come along to an Information session to find out more

27 August 10am - 12pm
4 September 2pm - 4pm
7 September 2pm - 4pm
9 September 10am - 12pm

Manchester Methodist Central Buildings, Oldham Street, M1 1JQ contact Dawn Kaveney on 07816 580792 or email dawn@cheethamadvice.org.uk

Sunday 30 August 2015

WEDNESDAY POP IN - ST MARY’S MOSTON - 10.45 – 12.30 pm

Wednesday mornings 10.45 – 12.30 pm - Fortnightly

EVERYONE WELCOME
Join us for free cuppa and friendly company

Bargain tables of books, DVDs, CDs and bric-a-brac. Most items for a donation of 25p, 50p or a £1

Occasional speakers and outings.

For more information contact the Church on 0161 681 1201.
www.stmarysmoston.co.uk

Free Audience Tickets for Countdown at MediaCity UK Salford

If you enjoy Countdown and want to be part of the audience, here's your opportunity. ITV have released dates of recordings up until October - feel free to ask about October dates on the number below.  ITV are particularly keen to take group bookings and have provided reassurance that there is very little waiting time involved at the Studios.  Anyone attending will have immediate access to seating in the Audience Lounge prior to being escorted to the recording studio.

Here are the dates for September:

Monday 14 September 13:00-17:45 or 18:15-21:00
(Dictionary Corner- TONY JACKLIN)

Tuesday 15 September 9:15 - 12:30, 12:45 - 16:00 or 16:00 - 19:15
(Dictionary Corner- RUFUS HOUND)

Wednesday 16 September 10:00-13:00 or 13:15-18:00
(Dictionary Corner- TBC)

Monday 28 September 13:00-17:45 or 18:15-21:00
(Dictionary Corner- TBC)

Tuesday 29 September 9:15 - 12:30, 12:45 - 16:00 or 16:00 - 19:15
(Dictionary Corner- MICHAEL WHITEHALL)

Wednesday 30 September 10:00-13:00 or 13:15-18:00
(Dictionary Corner- TBC)

ITV has facilities for people with disabilities and will do everything they reasonably can to meet an individual’s needs.  This may include wheelchair access. All requests will be dealt with in confidence. For further information about bookings or assistance call Jo Lewis 0161 952 0408 or countdownaudience@itv.com 

The Green Stroke Cafe at Manchester Museum - Second Tuesday of the month 2pm - 3.30pm

Runs from May – October

The Manchester Museum’s Stroke cafĂ© launched in May to coincide with Stroke Awareness month. Come and explore the museum’s outdoor spaces, get involved with our allotment, and find out more about our natural history collection from our curators and conservationists.

Enjoy some refreshments, and chat with a member of staff from the Stroke Association.

Saturday 29 August 2015

People First Dementia Support Service

Free support available to people aged 55+ living in Manchester who are exhibiting signs of dementia, memory loss or confusion. The service provides support in a range of areas including independent living, claiming benefits, assistance in liaising with other agencies including health and social care.

To make a referral or obtain further information about the project, please contact: People First Dementia Support at People First Housing Association on 0161 235 6900 or visit our website http://www.peoplefirsthousing.co.uk/support.html

Friday 28 August 2015

INTERGEN Chorlton is looking for volunteers

Make new friends, be useful, use your skills and expertise and have fun! INTERGEN offers you the opportunity for all this by volunteering in a local primary school in Chorlton (Barlow Hall, Chorlton Park and/or Old Moat).

Check out the Intergen website (www.intergen.org.uk) and contact Estelle on 07946 761 785 or estelle.longmore@intergen.org.uk for a chat about how this might be the right thing for you and some local children.

Thursday 27 August 2015

POPPs (Partnerships for Older People Projects) - Gorton - Thursday mornings 10.30 am - 1pm

Trinity Baptist Church, Wellington Street, Gorton, M18 8BE
Thursday mornings 10.30 am - 1pm

A partnership funded by POPPs (Partnerships for Older People Projects) and run by The Stroke Association in co-operation with Manchester Carers’ Forum with trainers from ‘Extend’.

An eight week programme of health promotion and supported exercise focusing on exercise and healthy lifestyle choices. People affected by stroke can participate in chair-based exercise with a qualified ‘Extend’ trainer.

Carers are given the opportunity for a break or to meet other carers and participate in activities such as relaxation and alternative therapy etc. The second half of the session is aimed at the whole group and looks at issues around stroke and healthy living.

Please ring Helen Gilbertson or Chantelle Brady – Information, Advice and Support Co-ordinators at the Stroke Association on 0161 742 7482 or mobile 07983 343003 to be referred to POPPs.

Wednesday 26 August 2015

My Generation Over 50s Club night

They’re on the move again – to Alter Ego, Princess St Manchester 
Sunday 1st November 2015, from 7.00pm

Club regulars were sad to hear of the closure of the Roadhouse on Newton Street - the venue had generously provided them with a home for the best part of 2014. An appeal to club owners in Manchester resulted in a kind offer from Alter Ego on Princess Street, the current home of the legendary Twisted Wheel.


Why not join them on opening night and enjoy the coolest over 50s night out in Manchester. As always they’ll be playing the tunes of your generation and there’ll be live music from The Cavernites, tickets are still just £5.00 and are available in advance or on the door. 


For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299 or t.annette@manchester.gov.uk or visit www.facebook.com/mygenerationmcr

Tuesday 25 August 2015

Close Knit - Last Saturday of the month - Manchester Art Gallery

This is a great opportunity to knit in a relaxed sociable atmosphere. Beginners and more experienced knitters welcome.

Each month Lucy Burscough leads a session inspired by the Gallery of Costume collection. Drop in, no need to book, all materials provided.

Last Saturday of the month. 2pm - 4pm. Free.

Monday 24 August 2015

Pension Wise - Free, impartial guidance service

Confused by the new pensions freedoms? Looking for some free, impartial guidance?
Then come and talk to Pension Wise, the new service which helps people to understand their options and to make informed decisions about their pension which are best for their individual circumstances.

Appointments are available in central Manchester and various locations in Tameside, Trafford and Stockport.  

To be eligible for an appointment you need to be aged 50+ and have a defined contribution pension pot.

To make an appointment call Manchester Pension Wise on 0161 830 2070.
To find out more visit the Pension Wise website -  www.pensionwise.gov.uk

Sunday 23 August 2015

Horrible Histories: Blitzed Brits, new exhibition at Imperial War Museum North

Open daily 10am – 5pm, free entry.

Seventy-five years ago, Britain faced one of the greatest dangers in its history – the Blitz. Now, to mark the anniversary, IWM North has teamed up with Horrible Histories® to reveal some of the terrible truths behind this catastrophic conflict.

Personal stories and more than 200 objects, photographs, art works, film clips and sound recordings from IWM’s unrivalled national collections reveal how, for the first time, the Blitz brought the war to the doorsteps of everyone in Britain.

Discover the dramatic deeds and surprising stories behind extraordinary objects in this is a major new interactive exhibition for families. To find out more please contact 0161836 4000, email or visit the website www.iwm.org.uk/north.

Saturday 22 August 2015

International Day of the Disappeared talk - Saturday 29 August and Sunday 30 August

People’s History Museum
Saturday 29 August and Sunday 30 August 2pm – 3pm

Join us for a talk relating to The International Day of the Disappeared exhibition. Find out more about the day and also about the International Family Tracing service offered by the British Red Cross. Suitable for adults and young people Booking required via Eventbrite – http://idotd1.eventbrite.co.uk

In order to keep our events programme affordable to everyone, please make a donation. Suggested donation £3.

For further information, please contact the museum on 0161 838 9190 or info@phm.org.uk

Friday 21 August 2015

LGBT History tour - Friday 28 August - People’s History Museum

People’s History Museum, Friday 28 August 1.15pm – 2pm

Celebrate Manchester Pride on a tour of the PHM’s main galleries and discover how the history of gender and sexuality has been affected by society, politics and activism over the past 200 years.

Suitable for adults and young people.  Booking required via Eventbrite – http://phmlgbttour2.eventbrite.co.uk

In order to keep our events programme affordable to everyone, please make a donation Suggested donation £3 For further information, please contact the museum on 0161 838 9190 or info@phm.org.uk

Thursday 20 August 2015

Living Well with Dementia - Monday 28 September, 1pm - 4.30pm - Moss Side

Living Well with Dementia, Amani Centre, Moss Lane East, M16 7DG
Monday 28 September, 1pm - 4.30pm

An open afternoon at the Friendship Activity Group in Moss Side. For local people, professionals and people who care about our elders. Come and see what skills our members have and the fun we have together.

Enjoy lunch with us, learn more about dementia, watch an inspiring film, join in our activities, and participate in discussion about what help is needed and is available locally.

To book a place e-mail sally@togetherdementiasupport.org or phone 07854 335890

Wednesday 19 August 2015

The Chatterbox Project's Chair-Based Exercise Class is Back! Thursday morning 10am

Do you struggle with mobility? Do you want to participate in gentle, targeted exercise in a warm and welcoming environment?

The Chatterbox Project is a registered charity based in Blackley, run by the community - for the community. For several years, we ran a highly successful chair-based exercise class at our premises on Booth Hall Road; and we are thrilled to announce that, thanks to popular demand, it's back!

Under the tutelage of our very own Community Worker, Jen, you'll learn a range of gentle but effective movements designed to keep you mobile and enhance your quality of life. If you would like to attend the weekly class, simply pop along any Thursday. The sessions run for an hour, and are offered free of charge.

If you would like any more information, simply call The Chatterbox Project on 0161 795 6162, and ask for Jen.

Tuesday 18 August 2015

Volunteer Centre Manchester

VCM provides information, support and training to Manchester residents who want to volunteer. VCM also supports organisations who want to recruit volunteers, need help and advice to develop new roles, introduce/update policies and procedures or have a training need.

Whether you're looking to lend a hand on a one-off basis or for a longer period of time, Volunteer Centre Manchester can bring you the most current selection of opportunities across Greater Manchester and assist with your application.

For further information and to register with Volunteer Centre Manchester visit www.volunteercentremanchester.co.uk and direct your attention to the ‘I want to Volunteer’ section. Alternatively you can phone 0161 830 4770 or email info@volunteercentremanchester.co.uk

Monday 17 August 2015

Wednesday POP IN at St Mary's Moston - Wednesday 10-45 am to 12-30 pm. - Fortnightly

EVERYONE WELCOME

Meeting once a fortnight on a Wednesday morning 10-45 am to 12-30 pm. Come along for a free cuppa and friendly company. Bargain tables of books, DVDs, CDs and bric-a-brac. Most items for a donation of 25p, 50p or a £1. Occasional speakers and outings.

For more information contact the Church on 681 1201 http://www.stmarysmoston.co.uk

Sunday 16 August 2015

Manchester charity offers free support for care caterers with vegetarian/vegan nutrition

Vegetarian for Life (VfL), a national charity dedicated to improving life for older vegetarians, is offering free talks and cookery demonstrations.

Since 2008, the charity has been educating care home cooks about vegetarian/vegan nutrition, with cookery demonstrations and tasty samples. The charity has now appointed a Roving Chef - experienced cookery tutor and food writer, Jane Hughes, to offer  talks and cookery demonstrations to care home cooks and groups of interested older adults in Greater Manchester.

Courses for professional caterers are subsidised by the charity. Talks to groups of older adults are free. For more information email jane@vegetarianforlife.org.uk or call Jane on 0161 257 0887.

Saturday 15 August 2015

The Coffee Club – a new weekly social in South Manchester on Wednesdays

Every Wednesday, 2 - 4 pm
Hibiscus Court, 16 Sedgeborough Road, Moss Side, M16 7HU
Hosted by LINK Two and Hibiscus Court

You’re invited to the brand new weekly social called The Coffee Club for an afternoon of tea, chat and fun activities. All over-50s and their carers are welcome and the group is absolutely free.

If you know somebody who you think might enjoy this group, please get in touch. For more information please contact Simon on mailto:link@trinityhousecrc.org.uk

Friday 14 August 2015

Are you a Manchester City fan? Do you want to support homeless people in our community?

Why not volunteer with The Booth Centre in the Football Kiosk Volunteer programme?

This is a unique volunteering opportunity for someone who wants to support homeless people/former homeless people who you will work alongside and also help to raise money for the Booth Centre. You will be part of a team serving food and drink before and during Manchester City’s home football matches at the Etihad Stadium.

To find out more please contact Valentinos on 0161 835 2499, email valentinos@boothcenter.org.uk or visit the website http://www.boothcentre.org.uk/football-kiosk-volunteers.html

Thursday 13 August 2015

Age Friendly Neighbourhood Coordination Group

This reconvened group brings together a range of partners who work with and support older people living in the city.

The first meeting of 2015 was held on 20th July at the Friends Meeting House, when Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the Living Longer Living Better team gave a presentation on Wellbeing and Older people.

Meetings will be held twice a year, with the next meeting scheduled for November 2015.

In addition to sharing updates relating to developments and delivery of the Age Friendly Manchester programme, each meeting will also provide a platform for organisations needing to reach a wider but specific audience.

For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299 or t.annette@manchester.gov.uk

Wednesday 12 August 2015

Heathfield Hall – Keeping Active, Keeping Healthy

Heathfield Street, Newton Heath

Heathfield Users Committee is made up of a number of a number of voluntary groups who organise activities and health sessions which take place in Heathfield Hall.

The group promote its activity programme through a “What’s On” guide. Copies are available from the Hall or neighbouring Day Centre. All activities are open to older residents of the local community including the fortnightly Front Row film club and the Fun and Games activity sessions. Some sessions such as the Sound Heart Support Group require a GP or Health Visitor referral. Search for them on Facebook as Heathfield Users.

For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299.

Tuesday 11 August 2015

The International Day of the Disappeared - Photography Exhibition

People’s History Museum
Friday 28 August – Thursday 10 September
10am – 5pm
The International Day of the Disappeared


The International Day of the Disappeared falls on 30 August and commemorates the number of people still missing as a result of conflict, disaster and migration.  The British Red Cross International Family Tracing service assists those separated from their family members in such situations to re-establish contact with their loved ones.  This photography exhibition explores the themes of family separation and the missing.


Suitable for adults and young people


In order to keep our exhibitions programme affordable to everyone, please make a donation
For further information, please contact the museum on 0161 838 9190 or info@phm.org.uk

Monday 10 August 2015

Ten tips for getting a better night's sleep

Golden Voices Community Choir - Celebrating singing together for over 5 years

This beautiful, open access Choir has had another marvellous year spreading the joy of singing and entertaining hundreds of older Manchester residents at performances across the city.  They have an ethos that “everyone can sing” and welcome new members with no singing experience.

This choir is aimed at people over 50 and has always been regarded as more than a singing group, “we’re a friendship group”.  

You can view clips and images of their performance and even make enquiries about membership at: www.facebook.com/goldenvoicescommunitychoir 


For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299 or t.annette@manchester.gov.uk

Sunday 9 August 2015

Manchester Stroke Cafes

The following programmes are designed for anyone who has had a TIA or people affected by stroke and their carers. If you would like more information, advice and support contact Helen Gilbertson or Chantelle Brady Information, Advice and Support Co-ordinators at the Stroke Association on 0161 742 7482 or mobile 07983 343003.

Come along for a brew and a chat, get some friendly advice and meet new friends at one of our Stroke Cafes below:

Trinity Baptist Church, Wellington Street, Gorton, M18 8BE, 24 August, 28 September, 26 October, 30 November, 21 December, 10 am – 1 pm. Light lunch provided

Sydney Jones Court, 333 St Mary’s Road, Moston, M40 0BH, 10 August, 14 September, 12 October, 9 November, 14 December, 10 am – 1 pm. Light lunch provided

Barlow Moor Community Centre, 23 Merseybank Avenue, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 7NT, 4 August, 1 September, 6 October, 3 November, 1 December, 10am to 1pm. A two-course lunch is available at a small charge. Tea and coffee are free

Factory Youth Zone, 931 Rochdale Road, Manchester, M9 8AE 12 August, 9 September, 14 October, 11 November, 9 December. 10am to 1pm.

Tree of Life Centre Wythenshawe, Greenbrow Road, Newall Green, Manchester, M23 2UE, 20 August, 17 September, 22 October, 19 November, 17 December. 10am to 1pm. A lovely meal is available for a small charge and tea and coffee is free.

Saturday 8 August 2015

Looking for sheltered and/or extra care housing for over 55s in East Manchester?

Look no further than Butler Court in Miles Platting!

At Butler Court residents live in their own self contained flat.  Extra Care means that if you need it there are care staff based at the scheme 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and residents who need to use this care service can.  
 
There are fantastic communal facilities such as the communal lounge, kitchen, hairdressers, community shop, scooter store and assisted bathing facilities for those who need it.  
Contact Sue or Jodie on 0161 205 8578

Friday 7 August 2015

Mindful Marks - Drop in, draw and de-stress

Mindful Marks - Drop in, draw and de-stress - Manchester Art Gallery

Join Artist Naomi Kendrick and find your flow in these experimental drawing workshops for adults. Draw and mark-make amongst Masters such as Turner, Constable and Gauguin using drawing techniques inspired by Mindfulness.
Everyone's welcome. Stay for two minutes or two hours, it’s up to you.

Second Tuesday of the month, 12 - 2pm
Free, no need to book.
https://adultprogrammesatmag.wordpress.com/2015/06/23/mindful-marks-the-start-of-a-new-wellbeing-workshop/

Thursday 6 August 2015

Rochdale Over 55s’ Day - Friday 14 August 10am - 2pm

Touchstones, The Esplanade, Rochdale, OL16 1AQ -  Free entry

Be informed

Free short seminars
Foot health
Women’s Institute
Link 4 Life
Local MP Surgery
Be entertained
Line dancing
Arts and Crafts
Reminiscence Sessions
Singer
Boccia Bowling
Armchair excercises
Refreshments available

Contact Jane for information - 07983 564893 www.svha.co.uk

Wednesday 5 August 2015

Second World War Evacuee Service - Sunday 23 August 10.30 am

St Mary’s, Churchgate, Stockport Market Place

The service, 'Goodbye Stockport' will mark the 70th anniversary of the return home of thousands of Channel Island evacuees from Stockport and the surrounding area. It will also mention ALL those children and adults who were evacuated from/to northern England during the war.

After the service, evacuees will be able to sit and share their wartime experiences. Refreshments available and small display on Wartime Evacuation. To find out more, email Gillian Mawson at whaleybridgewriter@gmail.com or call her on 01663 732963

Tuesday 4 August 2015

Wanted: Volunteer Assessors to home visit people for GroceryAid, the charity for grocery industry people

Volunteers are vital in helping GroceryAid support grocery industry people in need. If you are a good listener, enjoy meeting people, have an ability to recognise needs and apply solutions and would like a flexible voluntary position that fits around your lifestyle - this could be the role for you.

Assessors visit beneficiaries at least once a year in their homes. Your recommendations could result in beneficiaries receiving basic household items such as fridges, cookers, beds as well as emergency grants. Full training is offered and expenses paid.

Interested? Contact Sarah on 01252 875925, email sarah.vallins@groceryaid.org.uk or visit www.groceryaid.org.uk

Monday 3 August 2015

North City Nomads - Great Days Out for Older North Manchester Residents

Membership to this group is open to residents of North Manchester or those attending social groups and classes across the area.

The group was set up this year with an ambition to reach out to high numbers of older people who would benefit from improved interaction and social connectivity. The project was developed by the North Manchester Age Friendly Locality Networks as a practical way of addressing some of the very profound issue of loneliness amongst older people.

There are now approximately 450 members and the Nomads are set to embark on their second excursion of the year, this time to Llandudno, on 25th August. A further trip will take place in November to Chester Christmas Markets.

Registration for membership is currently closed but will reopen in January 2016.  For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299 or t.annette@manchester.gov.uk

Sunday 2 August 2015

Southway Housing - Age Friendly Directory of Services and Activities


Southway Housing is compiling an Age Friendly South Manchester publication aimed at older people.  Its a great opportunity to bring together information on the fantastic opportunities across the area. The publication will include information on groups and activities in addition to articles showcasing Age Friendly projects.

 Initially the plan is to publish a summer edition with potential for further publications. If you would like details of your group (max 80 words) or your Age Friendly Project (max 500 words) to be included, free of charge, please let Catherine Morris know before 14th August 2015. You may also include a relevant photograph to accompany your article which may be used, depending on space, please ensure you have relevant permissions for it to be used in the publication.
 
For further information or to email your submission contact Catherine Morris at Southway Housing Trust at
c.morris@southwayhousing.co.uk or call 0161 448 4281

Saturday 1 August 2015

Volunteer Chef wanted at The Whitemoss Age Friendly Lunch Club

Southdown Crescent, Charlestown, Blackley

This very popular Lunch Club, delivered as part of the Age Friendly Friday Club at Whitemoss, is desperately searching for a volunteer chef. In addition to food preparation, help with shopping is also needed. The group already has an active number of volunteers who will support the role.


The volunteer role will suit a retired cook or someone looking for experience that could lead to employment. The Age Friendly club is closed until September as Whitemoss deliver an extensive Youth Activity Programme.

For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299 or t.annette@manchester.gov.uk

North Manchester Age Friendly Summer Festival - 26 July - 8 August

Saturday 25th July – Saturday 8th August 2015

The festival aims to promote the huge amount of activities which are on offer to older people living in north Manchester. The network has distributed 2000 copies of a very colourful “What’s On Guide” to all local libraries, clubs  and community centres.

There are over 30 local opportunities advertised from Sunday Strolls in Heaton Park, Gentle Bootcamps for the recently retired, IT Classes and Knitting Circles – there really is something for everyone.
 Many of the activities promoted as part of the festival are ongoing activities. Why not try something new. For more information contact Tracey Annette on 0161 234 4299 or t.annette@manchester.gov.uk