Support for Older People's Forum

Upwards of 60 people from across the community attended the launch of the initiative in the Dobbs Room on Thursday.

Organised by Carrickfergus Community Forum, the event was addressed by a range of speakers including Marie Grattan, Age Northern Ireland and the Mayor, Alderman Jim McClurg.

Speaking to the TIMES afterwards, Billy Ashe, co-ordinator of the Community Forum, said they were pleased with the response.

“Twenty-one people have indicated they would be keen to be part of the steering group which will then elect office bearers. It is our intention to bring it together within the next week to fortnight to map the way forward for the group. At this stage if anyone else is interested they can still come forward.”

The project has secured assistance of 6,680, via the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland, from the Turkington Fund which recognises the contribution of older people to society.

Mr Ashe explained as well as funding the launch, the money will finance two study visits to help with skills development.

Carrickfergus Older People’s Forum came about following research by the Community Forum indicating there are a number of older people’s groups in the borough some of which are dependent on a small number of members to keep them going.

Mr Ashe added: “The smaller groups can keep their own identity but people can dip in and out of the bigger group which will have the ability to draw down resources more efficiently.”

The launch was also addressed by Brian McIlwaine, chair of Carrick Community Forum and his predecessor Beryl McKnight. The audience also heard of the positive experiences of Newtownabbey Senior Citizens Forum.

Anyone interested in joining the Carrick steering group is asked to contact Carrickfergus Community Forum on 028 93 359777