On Sunday 5th October 2014 local organisations, charities and individuals will be calling on residents aged 65 and over to don their Sunday best and join them for a variety of free activities being held as part of Silver Sunday, an annual day to celebrate the valued role of older people in the community.
Final preparations are currently underway for a nationwide day of free events designed to get older people together and recognise their importance. For one day every year, Silver Sunday provides those in their silver years with an annual opportunity to get out of the house, try new things and meet new people in a bid to combat the loneliness and isolation felt by many older people.
Local organisations, charities and individuals across the UK are sponsoring events and activities on 5th October to help raise awareness of and combat loneliness among older people. Tea parties, kurling, zumba classes and a world record attempt at the largest gathering of centenarians are just some of the Silver Sunday events being hosted this year.
There is also a tour and tea at Britain’s most famous cricket ground, Lord’s, and a visit to the houses of parliament.
Pioneered by The Sir Simon Milton Foundation and Westminster City Council, Silver Sunday was first held in 2012 and was developed in response to a national Royal Voluntary Service survey which revealed the serious levels of loneliness felt by older people. More than 30% of people over 75 in 2012 said they were ‘very lonely’ with 25% admitting that they did not leave their homes for days on end.
Since its launch last year, Silver Sunday has gathered the support of celebrities including Sir Cliff Richard, Joanna Lumley and Sir Terry Wogan.
Joanna Lumley said: “This is a special day for older people to get involved in community events and activities to bring back some of the traditional community spirit. It’s also a small thank you for your contribution to society.”
Boris Johnson, Mayor of London another supporter of the initiative said: “I am hugely heartened by the enthusiasm Silver Sunday has generated.”
To find out more about how you can get involved in Silver Sunday please visit the Silver Sunday website: silversunday.org.uk.
