Gigs to combat loneliness among older generation in Leeds

A series of summer festivals aimed at raising awareness of loneliness among the older generation, kick off in Leeds this weekend.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Jun 2016, 10:12 BST
Updated 25th Aug 2016, 20:02 BST
A Sheffield landlord has been finedA Sheffield landlord has been fined
A Sheffield landlord has been fined

Out of the Shadows: Time to Shine are staging six gigs between June and August in and around the city.

The group, managed by the Leeds Older People’s Forum (LOPF) and funded by the Big Lottery Fund, aims to integrate people over the age of 50 and reduce social isolation and loneliness.

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It is estimated that around 15 per cent of Leeds’ older generation are lonely and/or socially-isolated.

As well as hosting the half-dozen festivals, the group will be out in force to make people aware of what they can do to help older people.

The charity will ask festival-goers to get temporary tattoos, pose for photos and pledge to show their solidarity with older people.

They will also hold information stalls to publicise the work of their delivery partners, recruit volunteers and service users, and promote local neighbourhood networks so people know how to get involved in their local community.

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Hanna Wilcock, learning facilitator for Time to Shine, said: “Older people shouldn’t experience loneliness and isolation as an inevitable part of ageing.

“Time to Shine offers opportunities for fulfilment by breaking down barriers and building strong communities.”

The gigs that are scheduled are: Otley Carnival, June 18; Hunslet Gala, June 25; Holbeck Gala, July 2; Kirkstall Festival, July 9; Armley Festival, August 6; Leeds Pride, August 7.

Related topics:Leeds