Six new towns and cities have been officially inducted into the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities, bringing the total number of members up to 52.

The UK Network of Age-friendly Communities is a growing movement across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where people of all ages are able to live healthy and active later lives.

The Age-friendly Communities Framework was developed by the World Health Organisation, in consultation with older people. It is built on the evidence of what supports healthy and active ageing in a place. In these communities, older residents help to shape the place where they live. This involves local groups, councils, businesses and residents all working together to identify and make changes in both the physical and social environments, for example transport, outdoor spaces, volunteering and employment, leisure and community services.

Rhonda Riachi, Age-friendly Communities Manager, Centre for Ageing Better said:

I am delighted we have hit this major milestone by welcoming six more members into our ever-growing movement. This is a golden age for the Network as we pass the 50 mark. It’s so inspiring to see how many places are making a commitment to work towards becoming a great place to grow old in. 

Becoming age-friendly allows older residents the opportunity to help shape and create the place where they live. But the benefits are for the whole community. An age-friendly community doesn’t just benefit older adults – it benefits everyone.

Find out more about the UK Network of Age-friendly Communities: https://www.ageing-better.org.uk/uk-network-age-friendly-communities

Image credit: Age Friendly Communities