Residents aged 50 and over who live in Sidcup and the surrounding areas are invited to take part in a wide range of free activities designed to help them live well for longer.
The Live Well, Age Well pilot is based at Sidcup Storyteller, where Sidcup Library is transformed every Tuesday and Thursday into an Ageing Well Hub. The hub offers a programme of classes, activities and events that support people to maintain good health as they age, helping them to enjoy independent, active and socially connected lives.
The pilot is funded by NHS South East London Integrated Care Board and is the result of collaborative work through the Bexley Health & Wellbeing Partnership, co-designed with the London Borough of Bexley.
The programme gives older residents the opportunity to try new activities, make new friends and improve their wellbeing through a variety of physical, social and creative sessions. Activities are open to anyone aged 50 and over, whether they have existing health conditions and are available to residents of Sidcup, Foots Cray, Lamorbey, Blackfen and Bexley Village.
The Frognal neighbourhood was selected for the initial pilot due to its growing ageing population and evidence of isolation, loneliness and inactivity, which over time can lead to illness and frailty.
Councillor Brian Bishop, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said:
Sidcup Storyteller Library is a landmark building at the heart of Sidcup High Street and an ideal place for local people to explore new ways of staying healthy. This pilot is particularly exciting as it brings the library to life on two weekdays when it is usually closed, allowing additional access to library services alongside a vibrant programme of activities that support healthy ageing. Our libraries exist to serve the community and I am proud that Sidcup Library is at the heart of this vital initiative to help people live better, longer lives.”
Councillor Melvin Seymour, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adults Services and Health said:
There is strong evidence that community-based activities play a vital role in helping people stay healthy as they move into older age. Physical activity, social connection and creative opportunities all support our mental, physical and cognitive wellbeing. This pilot offers something for everyone and provides multiple pathways to better health."
Diana Braithwaite, Director, Integrated Strategic Health & Care (Bexley), NHS South East London Integrated Care Board, said:
“The Ageing Well Hub is a great example of partnership working. It has been shaped by teams from health, social care and the voluntary sector, all of whom have listened carefully to the needs of Bexley residents. This pilot supports the aims of the NHS 10-year Plan by focusing on prevention and shifting services from hospitals into the community, helping older people to live well for longer.”
The new programme does not affect the usual opening hours of the library or the Castle Cinema