Silver Sunday event at Eastgate Centre set to combat social isolation and loneliness among older people
An Inverness event is set to bring older people at risk of isolation together.
The Silver Sunday event, organised by Inverness BID, in collaboration with Eastgate Shopping Centre, will take place on Sunday, October 6.
The event will run from 10am to 2pm with free refreshments available from 10am-12pm at the Eastgate Centre, Falcon Gallery with entertainment, activities and information stalls designed to bring together people in the community.
Silver Sunday is a UK wide movement created in response to the growing issue of social isolation and loneliness among older populations.
This initiative seeks to foster community connections through enjoyable events and organisers say Inverness is proud to be part of the effort to ensure our older residents feel valued and included.
Chris Kershaw, Eastgate Centre manager, said: "We're excited to be part of Silver Sunday at the Eastgate Centre, a celebration of our senior community with a day full of fun, entertainment, and activities.
“We look forward to bringing people together for an enjoyable and memorable experience."
A variety of information will be available on topics such as wills, banking, and advice on memory difficulties.
Highland Archive Centre and Am Baile will also be in attendance with interesting local images and visitors are encouraged to bring along their old photos of Inverness to share their memories.
Margaret Laws, Inverness BID deputy manager, said: "Thanks to Councillor Isabelle Mackenzie, Old People’s Champion, for making us aware of this fun and informative event which we are delighted to support.
“We especially would welcome people to look out their photos of old Inverness and the city centre and to come along and share their memories and stories.
“There is still time for local businesses, organisations, and community groups to get involved. All ideas, help and suggestions are most welcome and if you would like to find out more please don't hesitate to get in touch by emailing margaret@invernessbid.co.uk."
People are being encouraged to spread the word to help reach those who would benefit from the gathering.
Ms Laws added: “Everyone is welcome - whether you attend on your own, with friends, or bring your family. Let’s come together to create a day of community, conversation, and connection for our older residents.”
Meanwhile, the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness is working with some local artists to host a special art exhibition on from noon to 4pm to mark the event. It will feature works from artists Carole Bolton, Marcus Butler, Christine Ewan, David Ewan, and John Nicolson. The free exhibition will offer a diverse range of paintings, from landscapes to semi-abstract pieces.
Councillor Mackenzie said: “I hope Silver Sunday this year will be a huge success around Inverness and build on this for rest of Highlands for future events! It doesn’t matter what age we are, coming together is a great way of sharing and caring with folk in our community and help with social isolation and loneliness.”