Health and Happiness in North Tyneside

Applications are being invited for a fund that makes a difference to older people

The Health and Happiness Fund is now in its third year and is a joint initiative between North Tyneside Council and Age Concern North Tyneside.

Offering grants of up to £500, it aims to support older people to lead happier, fun-filled lives and counteract loneliness.

Jacqui Old, the council’s Head of Adult Social Care, said: “This fund helps older people to have the very best quality of life.

“I would encourage groups to apply for a grant and potentially make a difference to the lives of many older people.”

Alma Caldwell, chief executive of Age Concern North Tyneside, said: “The fund has a really strong track record.

“During 2009 a total of £19,945 was distributed between 80 successful groups, benefiting over 3,000 older people in North Tyneside.”

St Luke’s Lunch Club in Wallsend was awarded £250. Patricia King, of the club, said: “We’ve been able to buy matching crockery, new pans and utensils for our lovely new kitchen.

“It has helped us engage with many older people both old and new, many of who have little social contact and would be lonely without this midweek lunch club.”

The fund provides two small grant pots totalling £10,000 each, in July and October.

It encourages small, local, volunteer led groups who have little or no funding to apply for a grant of up to £500 by completing a simple application form.

The deadline for the next round of the Health and Happiness Fund is Friday 4 June 2010. A further round of grants will be distributed in October with a closing date for applications of Monday 6 September 2010.  This year the panel will be looking for groups who can attract and encourage new members to join in their activities. 

Further information and application forms are available from Age Concern North Tyneside, The Bradbury Centre, North Shields, or online at www.ageconcernnorthtyne.org.

Anyone requiring help to submit an application should contact Ann Lough, TEL: (0191) 287 7014.

Source: North Tynside Council