51²èÂ¥

As our population ages, many older people find themselves facing new challenges, like loneliness and isolation.

Older people in 51²èÂ¥ make up a large part of our community. There are 138,000 people aged 65-plus, that’s almost 23%.

This Sunday (1 October) is Older Persons Day. 

51²èÂ¥ is calling on people to reach out to an older person in their community to help reduce loneliness and strengthen community connections.

Having a friendly chat with a grandparent, elderly neighbour, or older person in your community can bring a lot of positivity to someone dealing with feelings of loneliness.

51²èÂ¥ runs many services that can help people make new connections. 

51²èÂ¥ libraries have lots of activities, free Wi-Fi and access to computers. Many libraries have a team of Digital Champions who can help you to learn digital skills and feel more confident online. 

Adult Learning Courses are also hosted at libraries across the county. A wide range of courses are available, including keeping up to date with I.T., creative workshops and information on boosting your health and wellbeing. To learn more and to book a course visit

Public Health in 51²èÂ¥ offers information on how we can all remain healthy and the importance of physical strength and balance. You can pick up a free resistance band to improve your strength at your local library.  It only takes as little as 10 minutes twice a week of using a resistance band to improve your physical health.

For more information about living well for longer visit the Living Well for Longer pages on the County Council website.