Celebrating new beginnings at every stage of life

As part of Positive Ageing Month, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council brought people together for The Next Chapter — an inspiring event celebrating new beginnings, fresh opportunities and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead at every stage of life.

1. (L-R) John Hamilton (Northern Regional College), Hannah Wilson (Northern Ireland GP Federation), Carrie Currie (Business Development Officer), Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Henry Cushinan, Clare-Marie Bailie (Volunteer Now), Kelly Doyle (Age F | ANBC

placeholder image — 1. (L-R) John Hamilton (Northern Regional College), Hannah Wilson (Northern Ireland GP Federation), Carrie Currie (Business Development Officer), Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr Henry Cushinan, Clare-Marie Bailie (Volunteer Now), Kelly Doyle (Age F | ANBC

This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programme Body.

The event explored the many ways people can continue to grow, learn and thrive, from developing new skills and discovering a renewed sense of purpose to volunteering, retraining and building meaningful connections. It highlighted the importance of recognising the opportunities that come with every stage of life and embracing the potential for positive change.

(L-R) Carrie Currie (ANBC), Hilary Karakoc (Accredited Certified EFT Practitioner), Mayor, Councillor Henry Cushinan, Newtownabbey's own "Spidergran", Jill Aspinall, Derek Robinson (Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors' Forum) and Kelly Doyle (ANBC) | ANBC

Keynote speaker Elaine Curry shared a powerful reminder that skills, wisdom and experience do not expire with age. Instead, they provide a valuable foundation for exploring new opportunities, embracing new challenges and confidently writing the next chapter of our lives.

The key message from The Next Chapter was clear: age is not a barrier to new beginnings, but an opportunity to embrace them.

Positive Ageing Month continues throughout October, with a programme of activities and events designed to encourage participation, promote connection and celebrate the opportunities available at every stage of life.

To explore the full programme and book your place, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/positive-ageing-month.