News FOR YOU
Introduction
Welcome to the Autumn Edition of ‘News for You’. As many groups start back after their summer break, I am thrilled to bring you not one but SIX ‘Meet the Team’ articles highlighting the amazing work happening across the Borough. This edition is packed with even more informative articles to keep you safe, warm and well. Also included are details of how you can join us to celebrate Positive Ageing Month with events taking place in October. The planned activities and events will give you information on how you can live independent and active lives as you age.
Our goal remains to work in partnership to help make Antrim and Newtownabbey a place where people can live full, active, valued and healthy lives.
Following on from our last issue, the consultation of the Age Friendly Action Plan is now closed. I extend my thanks to everyone who participated. Your valuable feedback is reflected in the final plan. We look forward to officially launching this plan in November 2024.
Do not forget if you have a specific Age Friendly question, visit the ‘Ask the Age Friendly Officer’ page at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /age-friendly
You are invited to our Tea and Treats celebration
Coming to an area near you this october
What to expect
October is Positive Ageing Month. It is a time to celebrate the contribution that those 50 years and over make to our Borough.
Join us for our Positive Ageing Month tea party. There will be treats, tea and coffee and interactive ways to think about your health and wellbeing.
Who is invited?
Anyone aged 50 years and over, however regardless of age, if you would find this useful please come along.
Is there a cost and do I need to register?
These events are free to attend, however, for catering purposes, please register by contacting T. 028 9034 0160. Location
Belfast City Mission
Rathcoole Hall, Innis Walk, Newtownabbey, BT37 9EZ
Tuesday 1 October 2024 10.30am-12pm
Ballyclare Townhall The Square, Ballyclare, BT39 9BB Friday 4 October 2024 10.30am-12pm
Crumlin Leisure Centre 2 Main Street, Crumlin, BT29 4UP Friday 11 October 2024 10.30am-12pm
Muckamore Parish Development Hub 1A Limetree Avenue, Muckamore, BT41 1NP Monday 14 October 2024 12pm-1.30pm
Neillsbrook Community Centre Neillsbrook Road, Randalstown, Antrim, BT41 3AE Wednesday 16 October 2024 10am-12pm
Carnmoney Church 258 Carnmoney Road, Glengormley, Newtownabbey, BT36 6JZ
Tuesday 22 October 11am-12.30pm
Monkstown Village Centre Monkstown Village Centre, Newtownabbey, BT37 0HS Monday 28 October 2024 2pm-3.30pm
Meet the Team at Crumlin Men's Shed
I was thrilled to meet Jim and the other volunteers at Crumlin Men’s Shed to find out more about the activities they run.
Tell us about your group
Crumlin Men’s Shed was opened in 2019 and welcomes men over 18 years old. It is a safe, open space to come together and participate in various activities.
What can someone expect at the shed?
The shed occupies an old school building, which has been transformed into an interactive workshop and blossoming garden. Outside, the site has an extensive polytunnel to grow shrubs, plants and vegetables. There is also an area to carve wooden furniture masterpieces from tree stumps. Inside is a workshop that is equipped with machinery to allow you to create items such as coffee tables and garden planters. There is someone on hand to show you how the machinery works. Moreover, there is an art studio where you can participate in art classes with spaces available in the class held on a Wednesday. Alternatively, if you do not want to do activities you are welcome to call in for a cuppa and a chat or enjoy a book from the extensive library on offer.
Moreover, giving back to the community is an important part of the work done by the shed. Projects completed include building a mud kitchen for a nursery school, erecting a polytunnel for a local primary school and completing a life-size Santa’s sleigh at the request of a local resident.
Another way skills are passed on is through courses. Recently courses were held demonstrating basic car maintenance, home
improvement, sculpting and art. Contact Crumlin Men’s Shed for details of upcoming courses from September 2024 (courses are open to both males and female).
Do you know you can support the work of the Men’s Shed as the plants are for sale to members of the public and orders can be placed for individual pieces including garden benches and planters?
Why do you love coming to Crumlin Men’s Shed?
“The shed has provided a safe and welcoming space for men to come together and have a yarn with someone allowing them to open up about struggles they may be facing.” Martin
“After Covid-19 I retired from my job. Joining the shed has given me a place for my art and passing that skill on to others. Personally it has really helped my mental health.” Paul
Location: 3 Glenavy Road, Crumlin, BT29 4LA
Cost: Free
Meet the Team at Antrim Floral Art Group
I was delighted to catch up with Marretta from the Antrim Floral Art Group to hear more about the work they are doing. Tell us about your group.
Founded in 1978, Antrim Floral Art group welcomes anyone interested in fun, flowers and friendship. Those with no experience, but a passion to learn about floral arrangement, are welcome alongside those who may want to improve and learn new skills. This is a fantastic opportunity for like-minded individuals with a love of flowers to come together.
What does a typical night look like at Antrim Floral Art Group?
The programme varies throughout the year with a mixture of speakers, demonstrations and workshops. During every session, there is always an opportunity to learn new skills and get ideas, including how to prepare and arrange flowers pruned from your own garden. Each evening finishes with a cup of tea or coffee, a biscuit and the chance to socialise together.
As well as the monthly programme, the spectacular floral art can often be seen across the Borough at various events including Templepatrick Christmas Tree Festival, Antrim Garden Show, Antrim Horticultural Show and the King’s Coronation. Recently, two of their members had the privilege of arranging the flowers displayed in Westminster Abbey. Attending events is much more than flowers, it is about community, creativity and sharing joy.
Why did you join Antrim Floral Art Group?
“I started floral art when I was 14 years old and had a flourishing career as a florist. When I retired, joining the Floral Art Group helped me get back into flower arranging. It has been a great way to keep learning, meet new friends, give back to the community and show the joy flowers can bring” – Marretta Coleman, Group Secretary.
For more information contact Marretta Coleman T. 07968 861808 E. marrettacoleman@gmail.com
Location: Antrim Methodist Church Hall, Greystone Road, Antrim, BT41 1HD
Antrim Floral Art Group, 2nd Thursday of every month, 7.30pm
Meet the Tesco Northcott Community Champions
If your group is operating in Antrim and Newtownabbey, do you know that the multinational supermarkets have Community Champions that can support groups in various ways? I was delighted to hear from Kellie and Joanne, Tesco Northcott, on what they have to offer.
Tell us about your role.
The role of Community Champion is a contributing factor on how Tesco gives back to their community by engaging and communicating with customers around how the store can support the community. They support schools, clubs and community groups in the local area.
What support do you offer?
All support available is budget dependant but there are various ways Tesco can support your group.
Stronger Starts, Blue Token Scheme
Host an information stand / do a collection in Tesco foyer
Book Table
Your group can request to apply for Stronger Starts where you could win £1,500. Following a visit and assessment from a judging panel, if selected, your group alongside two others compete as customers vote using blue tokens for the group of their choice. The group with the most tokens at the end of the month wins the money.
Groups and activities are welcome to host stands in the mall entrance to the Tesco store. This may be used as a collection opportunity to raise money for your group. A small charge applies to put your stand up with all money going back into community projects.
Tesco book table is a fantastic way to raise money. One group is chosen per month. That group donates books to the table. Books are then taken for a small donation and all donations are then given to that group at the end of the month.
Donations If your group is hosting a coffee morning or lunch, Tesco may be able to donate tea, coffee etc. for the event.
How
have
you helped the community so far?
In total last year, the Community Champions raised £28,000 for groups and £7,500 through the book table. Projects they have supported include a St Patrick’s Day lunch at Ardrigh Fold, new reading books for a local primary school and sales of knitted products for Alzheimer’s Society.
If you are part of a group and would like more information or to avail of any of the support above, call in and chat to the Community Champion at your local store.
Meet the Intergenerational Crochet Club
Tell us about your group.
The Crochet Club in Cloughfern Library is an intergenerational crochet session that brings the young in body and the young in heart together to learn the craft or to develop crocheting skills in a club with a community feel. You don’t have to know how to crochet as this club is perfect for the beginner as well as the pro.
What can I expect if I come along?
The club runs every Saturday from 2.303.30pm in Cloughfern Library. A table is provided for everyone to sit around in the main body of the library. There you can have a chat or share patterns and resources whilst working on your crocheting project or starting something new. Cloughfern Library has some wool and crochet hooks available to use on the day if you don’t have your own. You can bring your current project or get inspired on the day.
There is limited space available and so to accommodate everyone, we ask that you book your space which you can do by contacting the library.
How does the intergenerational aspect work?
The club is open to anyone over the age of eight years old. By bringing a variety of ages together, we hope to not only boost participants’ social wellbeing but also provide an environment where everyone can learn and spend time together. We hope this will give everyone the opportunity to build friendships and social connections with people of all ages, helping to break down potential stereotypes for each other’s age groups.
How did the group come about?
A young library user came to a fair that staff attended, and she explained her passion for learning knitting and crocheting. She mentioned that she was having to teach herself but that she desperately wanted to get better and saw joining a knitting or crocheting group was the best way to learn the skill properly. The young girl explained that the Knit and Natter groups that take place in libraries all meet when she is at school, meaning she can only access them during the summer. Cloughfern Branch Library Manager, Kim then decided to launch the Crochet Club in March 2024 which runs every Saturday from 2.30-3.30pm. Being able to respond to the needs of people in the community is rewarding. Feedback like this can be the catalyst that brings about new clubs and activities open to all members of the local community.
Meet the Forget-Me-Notes
Singing can help you stay active, connect with others and learn new songs for fun along the way. I visited the Forget-Me-Notes to hear more about their choir.
Tell us about your Choir
The Forget-Me-Notes was established in 2023 and is organised by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council in partnership with Live Music Now. Singersongwriter, Amanda St. John leads the choir.
What can you expect if you come along?
The choir is a welcoming, supportive and fun group, which welcomes new members and carers of those living with dementia. Singersongwriter, Amanda St. John leads the group in a range of popular, easy to sing songs. There is opportunity for tea, coffee and craic throughout. The atmosphere is light hearted and fun. No experience is required to join the choir.
What is your highlight of joining the group?
One member quoted: “I joined the ForgetMe-Notes in January 2024, and it literally changed my life. The power of the music, the healing and relaxing participation in the singing, and the fun and fellowship with the other members have all made it a very precious and special activity for me. Key to the inspiration and enjoyment of the group is the singer-songwriter, Amanda St. John, who is truly gifted, not just as a musician but also as a person of fun, compassion, encouragement and empathy. Her positivity and commitment, combined with her beautiful music of many varied genres and her ability to relate to everyone in the group with cheerful friendliness is an inspiration in itself. So for joy, happy times, music, singing, chat, friendship, respite from stress – Thank you Forget-Me-Notes.”
If you love singing, experienced or not, do you know there are many choirs throughout the Borough welcoming new members.
Antrim Community Choir
St. Josephs Community Hall, Antrim
Every Monday 7.15-9.15pm
Marie T Mulholland E. info@antrimcommunitychoirni.com
BB NI Centenary Male Voice Choir
Whiteabbey Methodist Church
2nd / 4th Thursday of each month
7.30-9.30pm
Roy McCullough T. 028 9147 2753
The Clare Chorale
Ballyclare High School
Every Thursday 8-9.30pm
Anne Demick
T. 07785 393516
E. anne.demick@btopenworld.com
Lagan Camerata (Mixed voices)
Lillian Bland Pavillion
Thursday (Fortnightly) 6.45-8.45pm
Judith Watson 07707 051414 judewatson@live.co.uk
The Rock Choir
St. Patricks Church of Ireland, Jordanstown
Every Thursday 7-8.30pm
Rachael Coulter www.rockchoir.com
Ballyclare Male Choir
Ballyclare High School
Every Wednesday 7.30-9.30pm
Ronnie Lee T. 07762 055100
E. ballyclarechoir@yahoo.com
Una Voce (Female Voices)
Lillian Bland Pavillion
Thursday (fortnightly) 6.45-8.45pm
Judith Watson T. 07707 051414
E. judewatson@live.co.uk
Meet the Home Safety Officer
Hi, my name is Tom and I am the Home Safety Officer for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
What is your role?
My main role is to highlight dangers in the home and provide advice and interventions to reduce the risk of having an accident. The role is very important as approximately 17,000 admissions to hospital per year are caused by accidents.
I provide Home Safety Checks to residents over the age of 65 and vulnerable adults within the Borough. The advice is tailored to each person aiming to provide information that can keep him or her safe both inside and outside the home. Topics I may cover include carbon monoxide poisoning, window blind cord safety and preventing trips and falls.
Free home safety equipment is also offered, subject to eligibility and availability. I can also refer you to other useful services such as Home Fire Safety checks from NIFRS, Occupational Therapy and Assisted Waste Collections.
In addition, if you are part of a group I can come along and offer a free Home Safety talk. One of my favourite parts of the role is connecting with new groups and organisations that I can pass advice and information on to.
Save the Date
Falls Prevention Events
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, but many can be prevented, and we are hosting two free Fall Prevention Information Events to provide guidance and resources to help residents stay safe:
Theatre at The Mill –Wednesday 18 September, 10am
Stiles Community Centre –Thursday 19 September, 10am
How can I be contacted?
You can find lots of safety tips on our website. If you have a specific question why not send me a question in the ‘Ask the Home Safety Officer’ box also on the Council website. Moreover, you can request a home safety check or talk by contacting me on the details below.
Thumbs up for Working Smoke Alarms
A smoke alarm is a warning device that detects smoke at the earliest stages of a fire this gives you vital extra time to escape. Smoke alarms are low cost items; you can get them from supermarkets or high street stores. If you are buying a smoke alarm, consider one with a 10-year battery.
Where do I fit a smoke alarm?
• You should fit a minimum of one smoke alarm on every level of your home, ideally on the hallway or landing ceilings
• The smoke alarm should be sited as per the manufacturer’s instructions
• It’s better to install a heat alarm in your kitchen rather than a smoke alarm
• When positioning a smoke alarm, make sure you will be able to hear the alarm at night with the bedroom door closed
• The more you install, the better cover you will have.
Testing your smoke alarm
• Test your smoke alarm once a week, you might want to pick a specific day e.g. thumbs up on Tuesday
• Test the alarm by pressing the test button on it
• If you can’t reach them, get a family member or neighbour to help or use a broom handle.
Maintain your smoke alarm
• Vacuum around your smoke alarm or wipe with a damp cloth once a month to stop a build-up of dust; this should help prevent false alarms
• If your smoke alarm has a 9-volt battery, replace it every year
• NEVER remove the battery or take your alarm off its backplate unless it’s to replace the battery or install a new alarm
• If you live in rented accommodation, contact the landlord to report any smoke alarm faults
• If you live in Housing Executive property, T. 0344 892 0900 to report any smoke alarm faults
• If your smoke alarm is connected to the mains, contact a qualified electrician to repair any faults
• Tenants and occupiers should also be aware of the main causes of fire in the home. Have a night-time routine to prevent fires from starting and have a fire escape plan for the property in the event of a fire.
Can everyone in the house hear the smoke alarm?
For people who would not be able to hear a conventional alarm, there are special devices available that make use of a vibrating pad or flashing light instead of the audible signal. Contact us for more information about these.
Get Involved With Winter Woollies 2024!
Last year, residents of Antrim and Newtownabbey donated an impressive 1,184 handmade items to the Winter Woollies campaign, an annual initiative that brings warmth and kindness to vulnerable members of our community. Donations were received from local community knitting/crocheting groups and from individuals across the country. Items were then distributed to organisations that work directly with those in our Borough who struggle to stay warm as the temperature drops and the cost of heating goes up.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Wool Drive
From 1 July to 30 August 2024 we invited residents to donate useable quantities of wool, knitting needles and crochet hooks at Mossley Mill and Antrim Civic Centre. This campaign was very successful and we are delighted by the number of donations received. If you are involved with a Knit and Natter or crochet group that has a demonstrated need for materials, get in touch with Environmental Health T. 028 9034 0160
We need YOU to help us share the warmth again in 2024!
The Cost of Living crisis is still affecting us - some members of our communities will struggle to stay warm this winter. We call upon our residents to join us in this initiative to share warmth and kindness by knitting or crocheting items such as hats, blankets and mittens to be distributed by organisations that work directly with our neighbours in need. We are especially in need of items for men, teenagers and adults, and adult-sized blankets are extra welcome!
You can also get involved by sending a message of hope. Your messages will be attached to donated warm items that will be received by those who need them. Visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/contributeto-winter-woollies and click on ‘Send a Message of Hope and Kindness’.
Get together with friends, join a knitting or crochet group, or start your own projects that can be donated at Mossley Mill and Antrim Civic Centre from 16 September to 14 November 2024.
If you would like more information about Winter Woollies, get in touch with us. E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 028 9034 0160
10 Tips to Make Mealtimes More Enjoyable
Sometimes cooking can feel like a chore but finding a way to make mealtimes enjoyable can transform eating from a routine task into a delightful experience. Here are some tips to enhance the experience, whether you are eating alone or with others:
1. Listen to music. Soft background music can make the atmosphere more relaxed
2. Try out a new recipe
3. Add colour to your plate with a variety of fruit and vegetables
4. Read a book or listen to an audiobook
5. Add some garnish to your plate to elevate it
6. Create routine so you set aside roughly the same time each day to eat nutritious meals
7. Meal plan. This can help remove the
Stuffed Pepper Recipe
chore of thinking about what to cook every day and will also help you plan what to buy at your weekly shop
8. Do pre-preparation when you can e.g. chop extra vegetables that can be used for more than one meal and store them in the fridge until use
9. Organise a ‘pot luck’ dinner with friends or family where everyone brings a different dish to enjoy together.
10. When you can, visit one of the many lunch clubs and coffee mornings happening across the Borough
Ingredients Method
2 medium green peppers
1/2 pound minced beef
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce, divided
1/4 cup uncooked instant rice
3 tablespoons shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tablespoon chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 large egg, beaten
1. Cut tops off peppers and discard; remove seeds. Blanch peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and rinse in cold water; set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine beef, 1/4 cup tomato sauce, rice, 2 tablespoons cheese, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper and egg; mix well. Stuff the peppers; place in an ungreased baking dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over peppers. Cover and bake at 180°C for 45-60 minutes or until meat is no longer pink and peppers are tender.
3. Sprinkle with remaining cheese; return to the oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Recipe: www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/stuffed-peppers-for-two
Hourglass, Calling Time on Elder Abuse
Hourglass, previously known as Action on Elder Abuse, is a charity working across the United Kingdom to end the harm, abuse and exploitation of older people. The charity influences, challenges and educates society as well as working in partnership to bring real and positive change.
Hourglass can be contacted in many ways including their 24/7 helpline, text help, email, live chat and community response.
Five signs of physical abuse in older people
Untreated injuries, in various stages of healing or not properly treated
Dehydration or malnourished without an illness-related cause
Cuts, lacerations, open wounds, black eyes, burns, fractures or welts Loss of weight
Inappropriate use of medication - overdosing or under-dosing
Helpline - 0808 808 8141 www.wearehourglass.org
Learn
How to Save a Life with RivivR Tool
Many of us will witness a cardiac arrest in our lifetime. The British Heart Foundation has launched RevivR to help us learn CPR.
RevivR is mobile training that can teach you CPR in 15 minutes. All you need is your mobile phone and a cushion.
Set aside 15 minutes of your time and learn how to save a life. Visit www.bhf.org.uk/cpr
The Age NI team will deliver a series of sessions to your group, on topics from goal setting to health checks and nutrition. This interactive programme is available face-to-face or online via Zoom, and can be tailored to meet the needs and interests of participants.
Catch up With the Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors’ Forum
Team Trinity takes victory at the Sam Hunter NI Boccia Tournament
Congratulations to Team Trinity, that was made up of three members of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors' Forum Living Well group. They recently won the Boccia NI, Sam Hunter tournament at the Spectrum Centre Belfast.
Ladies Drop In group celebrated Dementia Action Week with floral goodness
The Ladies Drop In were delighted to put their creative skills to good use as they marked Dementia Action Week. They enjoyed a morning of floral goodness, chat and building friendships together.
Use your Smart Pass or lose it…
The men’s group organised a brilliant day out. They took the train to Dublin where some of them then went on to Dún Laoghaire to enjoy the maritime museum. The journey was as much fun as the destination.
Jordanstown Loughshore Clean up for Volunteers’ Week 2024
Volunteers from ANSF got their litter pickers out to clean up Jordanstown Loughshore Park. By tacking litter, residents were able to enjoy a cleaner, greener environment.
Getting creative through the Ages
Glengormley Integrated Primary School and the Monday Seniors worked together creating beautiful mosaics. They themed the art work around hobbies both generations enjoy. Moreover, they incorporated the primary school’s celebration of 20 years having integrated status.
Engaging Generations with an Intergenerational Boccia Tournament
Randalstown Central Primary School, Maine Fold, Neillsbrook Fold and Randalstown Seniors entered teams for a fun morning of Boccia. The experience of the seniors could not outdo the enthusiasm of the youth who came out on top as winners. Will a rematch see the seniors turn the tables for victory?
Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors’ Forum runs a range of programmes throughout the week, all open to new members
& Crochet Circle
Indoor Bowls Ballyclare 10am (2nd/4th Thursday)
Friday Women’s Drop In 10am (1st Friday of each month)
Ballyclare Men’s Drop In 10.30am (1st Friday of each month)
For more information, contact Robert McQuiston T. 028 9083 8848 or E. antrimandnewtownabbeysf@gmail.com
Save £s on Your Home Annual Energy Bills
This Autumn
Autumn has begun and the arrival of cold weather is only a matter of time. Read these energy-saving tips before you turn on appliances to ensure your household bills don’t go through the roof.
Make the most of natural light
Natural light will help to save on your electricity bills by having to switch on our lights less often. Remember to close your curtains and blinds at night to retain heat.
Don’t put the heating on too early
When you finally turn the heat on, keep the temperature constant and no higher than 21ºC.
Caution when using the tumble dryer
This is one of the most energy-consuming appliances in our home. We recommend that
you do the laundry on drier days and let the autumn breeze save you the energy cost.
Switch to energy-efficient lighting
With darker nights approaching additional lighting is needed and you may see a spike in your electricity bills. Did you know that LED lights use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
Get energy efficient
It is a good time to start thinking about heating your home in the most energyefficient way this winter. If you need a new boiler, need to repair a broken boiler or insulate your home, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Environmental Health and Wellbeing Team can give you advice on means-tested energy efficiency grants.
We are running a number of Keep Warm and Well events throughout September 2024. Why not drop by and chat to us about Energy Efficiency, Home Safety and much more.
Let’s Talk Attendance Allowance With Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey
Attendance Allowance is a non meanstested and tax-free benefit. You may get it if you are State Pension age or over and need help with personal care because you have a physical or mental health condition.
Eligibility
You may get Attendance Allowance if you are State Pension age or over - and have needed help with personal care because of a health condition for six months or more. Personal care includes:
• Help with things such as washing (and getting in or out of the bath or shower), dressing, eating, getting to and using the toilet, or communicating your needs
• Supervision to avoid putting yourself or others in a lot of danger (eg. needing someone to keep an eye on your medical condition or diet)
• Someone with you when you are on dialysis.
You can get Attendance Allowance even if no one is actually giving you the care you need and if you live alone.
There are two weekly rates of Attendance Allowance, £72.65 and £108.55. Claiming Attendance Allowance can also provide access to some other benefits and support.
Advice and Support
Frequently we find that there are too many people over 65 living with health conditions who meet the criteria to claim Attendance Allowance but need advice and support to do this. Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey can help. Their service is available over the phone, face-toface or even online.
T. 028 9590 6505
E. advice@advicean.com
Live chat at communityadvicean.co.uk
Face-to-Face is at our two main offices in Antrim and Newtownabbey along with our outreaches across the Borough.
Crumlin Camlin Credit Union, Main Street Tuesdays
Glengormley Barron Hall, Antrim Road Tuesdays
Randalstown The Arches Mondays
Toome Toome House
Are You a Housing Executive Tenant? The Financial Inclusion Team is Here to Help
Did you know that since 2020 the Housing Executive’s Financial Inclusion team has secured over £4.6 million in additional finances for tenants? Together, the team ensures tenants are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to and are empowered to make the right financial decisions, helping them navigate the cost of living crisis.
How have they helped?
The Financial Inclusion team recently contacted a pension age tenant to offer her a benefit check. The tenant did not think she would be entitled to Housing Benefit due to having savings; she was paying her full rent and rates out of her state pension of only £181 per week. The team carried about a benefit check with her and discovered she was actually entitled to an extra £64.71 of pension credit per week. Because of this, she
is now entitled to full Housing Benefit to cover her rent and rates. Overall, this tenant is now better off by over £6,000 per year.
The team urges anyone who has reached pension age, or anyone facing financial difficulty during this cost of living crisis to come forward and speak to them. Your conversation will be private and confidential, and our staff can also refer you to a range of other services you might need.
If you’d like to chat to one of the Financial Inclusion team, contact your local Patch Manager to ask for a referral by phoning the general enquiries line on T. 03448 920 900.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Community Fridge Network
The Antrim and Newtownabbey Community Fridge Network was launched in January 2024 to support local organisations that deliver Community Fridge services to their areas. The Network provides a toolkit, training, networking and opportunities to member organisations. In April 2024, representatives of some Community Fridges visited other projects.
Community Fridges are located in several areas across Antrim and Newtownabbey including 1st Randalstown Presbyterian Church, Antrim Castle Mall, United Parish Ballyclare, Mayfield Village, Listening Ear Rathcoole and A Safe Space to be Me, Crumlin.
The Power of Giving Back, How Can Volunteer Now Help
You and Your Group?
Volunteer Now is the lead organisation for promoting and supporting volunteering across Northern Ireland. Here are ways Volunteer Now could help your group:
Volunteers
Volunteer Now promotes volunteering to individuals and groups throughout Northern Ireland, providing access to a wide range of opportunities.
Organisations
Volunteer Now supports volunteer-involving organisations through the provision of training, promoting their volunteering opportunities, support with Safeguarding and access to useful publications.
Events
Over the last number of years their Events Team has been involved in many local and international events that couldn’t happen without volunteers.
Training
They provide a range of courses on volunteer management, safeguarding and youth topics. They can also provide a Tailored Training option to suit the particular needs of organisations.
Governance
Need help to improve good governance? Volunteer Now can provide support.
Youth
They support young people who get involved in volunteering, and support organisations who want to involve young people as volunteers.
Mobile Volunteering
Volunteer Now has been working in partnership with Oxfam Ireland for many years through mobile volunteering sessions to help raise money for their projects. Volunteer Now facilitates mobile volunteering sessions for groups of all ages and abilities as everyone can sit together, connect with one another over a cuppa and have a bit of craic. It is a very simple volunteering opportunity that has a massive impact.
If you are a group or volunteer looking for support in any aspect of volunteering in the Antrim and Newtownabbey area, give the outreach worker a shout and she will be more than happy to meet with you.
Wenda Gray
BECOME A VOLUNTEER WITH THE NIAS VOLUNTEER CAR SERVICE
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) plans to increase the size of its Volunteer Car Service (VCS), which provides high quality transport to and from non-emergency healthcare appointments and treatments for patients that don’t require an ambulance VCS is viewed as a vital part of NIAS’ Patient Care Service.
THE ROLE:
Support patients in your community by transporting to non-emergency healthcare appointments and treatments.
Personally rewarding and fulfilling, an opportunity to help your community.
Flexible, to fit in with other aspects of your life.
and reasonable expenses covered. Contact
“I have nothing but thanks and admiration for this excellent service and it the drivers themselves which is its best
Help Those Experiencing Bereavement Find Life Again
Cruse Bereavement has been providing support to those experiencing bereavement for the past 40 years. The support they provide would not be possible without their amazing, compassionate and passionate volunteers who all undergo full training when they sign up to give their time through Cruse. The volunteers reach all life stages including children, young people and adults as well as those in prison and bereaved through traumatic circumstances as they navigate through a new way of living.
Could you volunteer with Cruse?
Deciding to give your time to Cruse will be very rewarding as you are trained to provide support in person, online, by telephone and in groups.
Pauline from Cruse told us ‘there are around 200 volunteers in Northern Ireland. Often when people think of bereavement counselling they think of it as centred around death and dying. Cruse does not focus on that, we focus on life and how to keep living after loss’.
Cruse is keen to have a diverse range of volunteers from all walks of life. In Antrim and Newtownabbey there is a specific need for volunteers and host organisations. A host organisation can be a statutory, community or voluntary organisation with a space that can host individual counselling services or group work. If your group could help out, please get in touch with Pauline.
If volunteering directly with individuals experiencing bereavement is not for you, there are other ways you can support the work. You could become a Cruse Ambassador, a fundraiser or perhaps your group could host a fundraising event such as a relay marathon team, coffee morning or fancy dress party to raise funds for Cruse. This year as they celebrate their 40th birthday, watch out for them sharing 40 stories from 40 volunteers.
To get in touch with Cruse about volunteering, contact:
Pauline Matthew E. pauline.matthew@cruse.org.uk
T. 07572 736180
Rachel Blythe, NI Regional Administrator - Northern Area E. northernarea@cruse.org.uk T. 028 2766 6686
Colin Bingham, NI Regional Administrator – Belfast Area E. belfastarea@cruse.org.uk
T. 028 9043 4600
If you need the services of Cruse Bereavement contact the Helpline: T. 0808 808 1677 or visit the Cruse Bereavement Support website: www.cruse.org.uk
to help you stay motivated to exercise TIPS 5
Being physically active is one of the most important things you can do each day to maintain and improve your health and keep doing things you enjoy as you age. Make exercise a priority with the following tips:
Find ways to fit exercise into your day. You are more likely to get moving if exercise is a convenient part of your day.
Do activities you enjoy to make it more fun. Be creative and try something new!
1 2 3 4 5
Make it social. Find a virtual “exercise buddy” to help keep you going and provide emotional support.
If there’s a break in your routine, get back on track. Start slowly and gradually build back up to your previous level of activity. Ask your family and friends for support.
Keep track of your progress. Make an exercise plan and don’t forget to reward yourself when you reach your goals.
Visit www.nia.nih.gov/health/ staying-motivated-exercise-tips-older-adults to learn more.
Leisure Classes
Residents and visitors can enjoy the latest state-of-the-art facilities, equipment and leisure experiences at each of our five centres. We have activities that suit all ages, abilities and interests.
Live Long
The Live Long programme aims to provide a range of social and physical activities for participants in order to improve both mental and social fitness, as well as physical health.
Leisure Centre Day(s) Time Antrim Forum
Steady and Strong
Would you like to improve your strength and balance? Then this class is for you.
For full information and the criteria, please contact the MORE Team E. more@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk T. 0300 123 1580
Movement For Your Mind
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is now offering exercise sessions to support mental health.
These classes provide light to medium group-based exercise that can help to improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and reduce stress, so why not take advantage of this fantastic opportunity?
Book in advance online – the classes are free for members.
What’s On This Autumn?
Crochet Classes
Thurs 12 Sept – Thurs 24 Oct or Thurs 7 Nov – Thurs 19 Dec (7 week courses) // Mossley Mill – Old Museum // Adm: £52.50 & £47.50
Join Tutor, Margretta McCullough for either the morning (10am-12pm) or evening (7-9pm) classes suitable for both beginners and improvers. Beginners should bring double knitting wool and a 4mm hook which they will use to create a project bag in 7 weeks! Improvers can bring a current project or start a sampler blanket to learn new stitches, while advancing their techniques.
Tim McGarry’s ‘Ridiculous’
Fri 20 Sept // 7.30pm // Old Courthouse // Adm: £24
Thurs 3 Oct // 7.45pm // Theatre at The Mill // Adm: £24
Tim McGarry, the lanky star of Give My Head Peace and the Blame Game has a brand-new stand-up show - Ridiculous. Join Tim as he examines life, politics and the modern world and looks for the ludicrous, highlights the hilarious and laughs out loud at the frankly ridiculous.
The Elton John Show
Mon 7 Oct // 7.45pm // Theatre at The Mill // Adm: £26.50 (Buy 9 tickets and 10th is FREE)
The Rocket Man is back! Experience the UK’s ultimate Elton John tribute with Soul Street Production’s best-selling show, The Elton John Show. From Tiny Dancer to Your Song, The Elton John Show brings “Young Elton” back to the stage at his energetic best.
National Theatre Live – Prima Facie
Thurs 10 Oct // 7.45pm // Theatre at The Mill // Adm: £11.50
Jodie Comer’s (Killing Eve) Olivier and Tony Award-winning acting in Suzie Miller’s gripping one-woman play returns to cinemas.
Tessa is a young, brilliant barrister. She has worked her way up from working class origins to be at the top of her game. An unexpected event forces her to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of the law, burden of proof and morals diverge.
Prima Facie takes us to the heart of where emotion and experience collide with the rules of the game..
Ballyclare Autumn Twilight Market
Fri 18 Oct // 5 – 8pm // Ballyclare Town Hall // Adm: FREE
This exciting market is completely free to attend and offers something for everyone. Visitors can browse a wide range of stalls featuring mouthwatering food, handcrafted goods, and local seasonal produce. harvest hamper raffle 11am - 3pm
Magical Mozart by Candlelight
Tues 5 Nov // 7.45pm // Theatre at The Mill // Adm: £25.50
With beautiful settings, costumes, lighting and of course candles the European baroque ensemble and world class opera singers transport you back to the sumptuous past. A packed programme of classical music and song, which includes excerpts from the most memorable of Mozart's operas, such as: The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro, Cosi Fan Tutte and many more.
A Night with the Country Stars
Wed 6 Nov // 7.45pm // Theatre at The Mill // Adm: £28
Back by popular demand, the stellar line-up includes the legendary accordion maestro Brendan Shine, the wee man with the red guitar Declan Nerney, the energetic Shawn Cuddy, the blue jean country Queen Kathy Durkin from Cavan and the trucker’s favourite Boxcar Brian. Each of the stars will perform their trademark hit songs in the company of the fabulous Keltic Storm band. This is a show you won’t want to miss.
Did you know?
A member of our Culture team can help you with bookings and enquiries. They are available: Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm | Saturday and Sunday, 10am–5pm
The customer hub will also operate on the evenings of theatre shows and events.
T. 0300 123 7788 or E. culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Bookings can also be made online: theatreatthemill.com thecourtyardtheatre.com theoldcourthousetheatre.com
Fri 29 Nov – Sat 21 Dec
Antrim Castle Gardens
Just For Fun
Autumn Wordsearch
Find the following words in the puzzle. Words
Useful Phone Numbers
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Offices 028 9034 0000
Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors’ Forums
Antrim and Newtownabbey Age Friendly Officer
9083 8848
9034 0160
This magazine is available upon request in a range of alternative formats.
Alternative formats may include Easy Read, Braille, large print, audio formats (CD, mp3 or DAISY) or minority languages to meet the needs of those for whom English is not their first language.
If you want to learn more about this or have any requirements, please contact Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Customer Accessibility and Inclusion Officer Ellen Boyd E. ellen.boyd@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
