Health

Garden party aims to tackle loneliness among the elderly

Abbeyfield Belfast operations manager Niki Molloy, Bell Rotary House residents Tommy Elliott and Isobel Rae and singer-songwriter Anthony Toner  
Abbeyfield Belfast operations manager Niki Molloy, Bell Rotary House residents Tommy Elliott and Isobel Rae and singer-songwriter Anthony Toner   Abbeyfield Belfast operations manager Niki Molloy, Bell Rotary House residents Tommy Elliott and Isobel Rae and singer-songwriter Anthony Toner  

A SUPPORTED housing block for older people is opening its doors to the community in a bid to tackle loneliness among the elderly.

Bell Rotary House in east Belfast will host a special garden party, including music from singer-songwriter Anthony Toner, at 1pm on Thursday.

The event will include afternoon tea, stalls, a barbecue, face painting, a bouncy castle and games.

Abbeyfield Belfast, the charity which runs the accommodation, has organised the party in conjunction with EastSide Arts Festival.

Niki Molloy, operations manager for Abbeyfield Belfast, said everyone is welcome to attend.

"Loneliness and isolation in later years is an increasing issue, so it's more important than ever that we open our doors to those affected, even if it's just for a chat over a cup of tea," she said. 

EastSide Arts festival director Rachel Kennedy said it was important to reach out to older people who may feel isolated.

"Our highlights at home programme, which is supported by a range of fantastic artists performing at this year's festival, aims to help to make the festival accessible and inclusive to our older residents," she said.

"We are sure the session with the wonderful singer-songwriter Anthony Toner will be a very enjoyable experience for everyone."

For more information on EastSide Arts Festival visit www.eastsidearts.net