News For You - Age Friendly Newsletter Spring Edition 2024

AGE FRIENDLY NEWSLETTER, ANTRIM AND NEWTOWNABBEY

Introduction

Welcome to the Spring Edition of ‘News for You’. With longer, brighter nights on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to think about getting out and exploring more. In this edition, we’re excited to share information about a variety of activities happening throughout the Borough this Spring, from dazzling shows in our theatres to friendly community groups eager to welcome you. Our goal is to work in partnership to help make Antrim and Newtownabbey a place where people can live full, active, valued and healthy lives.

We have also revamped our website to make it even easier for you! Check out the new features like ‘Ask the Age Friendly Officer’ and use the enquiry box to express your interest in Intergenerational Activities

(more information on page 7). Visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /age-friendly or scan the QR code below. Lastly, our three-year Age Friendly action plan is all set for consultation, and we need your input! Learn how you can be a part of it on page 7 of this newsletter.

I look forward to receiving your Age Friendly questions and hearing your thoughts on our action plan.

Kelly Doyle, Age Friendly Officer

If you would like to feature an article or advertise an upcoming event in the newsletter please get in touch by contacting Environmental Health T. 028 9034 0160 or E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Kelly

T. 028 9034

Meet the...

Team at the Family Caring Centre, Antrim

Tell us about the Family Caring Centre

The Family Caring Centre is a voluntary organisation which provides a range of services in a friendly and supportive environment to families and individuals. The Family Caring Centre provides a service for residents across Antrim, Toome, Randalstown, Parkgate, Templepatrick and Crumlin.

What services do the Family Caring Centre provide?

Good Morning Antrim

Monday – Friday, 9am–1pm

This is a free befriending and alert telephone service to help reduce disconnection and loneliness. Recipients are contacted on an agreed weekday, at a pre-arranged time. You can expect a friendly chat, an update on relevant upcoming events and a listening ear if you have any concerns or needs. The service also acts as an alert service as failure to get in touch will trigger a call to your nominated contact to ask them to check on you. This service provides ‘peace of mind’ for loved ones.

Mental Health Support Group

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9am–1pm

This group seeks to support, accept and understand the individuals who attend. The group provides a holistic programme of alternative therapies and activities. Activities include shopping, arts and crafts, talks, outings and complementary therapies. Service users can also engage in ‘Chat and Share’ giving them an opportunity to enjoy refreshments and engagement with each other. *Facilitated by a Support Worker.

**Door to Door Transport Available.

Depression Support Group

Thursday Mornings, 9.30am–11am

Hosted by a trained facilitator, this is a safe, respectful and confidential environment for anyone experiencing depression. Group members can share how they are currently feeling, gain understanding of depression, learn new ways to cope and benefit from peer support. The group is supported by Aware NI.

Nibble and Natter

Tuesday, 11am–1pm

This is a new pilot initiative. The Family Caring Centre invites you to come along for a good old natter and a complimentary meal and refreshments in a warm space with great company.

The Learning Zone

Register your interest with the Family Caring Centre to avail of upcoming accredited and non-accredited courses. For more details visit www.familycaringcentre.com /the-learning-zone

How do I get a referral to this service?

Referrals are welcome to any of the services above from statutory, voluntary or community organisations. You can also self-refer or refer family or friends with their consent.

For further information, contact the Family Caring Centre T. 028 9446 4619 or E. admin@familycaringcentre.co.uk

Spring into Life: Try Something New This Season

Community Soup Lunch

Every other Wednesday (6/20 March 2024 & 3/17 April 2024) 12pm–1.30pm

Templepatrick Parish Hall, 1 Old Coach Road, BT39 0BA

Come along and enjoy a warm soup lunch and chat.

Contact: Jeremy Mould

T. 07896 839448 or E. jermould@gmail.com

Abbey Presbyterian Church

Coffee and Chat, every Wednesday, 10.30am–12pm

Lunch, every Friday, 12.30pm–2pm

Abbey Presbyterian Church, 9 Monkstown Road, Newtownabbey BT37 0LG

These events are open to the whole community.

Contact: Abbey Church Office

T. 028 9086 5712

Menopause Cafe

Last Friday of every month, 7pm–9pm

Lillian Bland Pavilion, Ballyclare Road BT36 5EX

A peer support group for ladies journeying through menopause providing an opportunity to share experiences with likeminded women.

Contact: Cathy Davey

T. 07703 733259 or E. cathy@ambest.life

Antrim Floral Art Group

2nd Thursday of every month, 7.30pm

Greystone Methodist Church Hall, Greystone Road, Antrim, BT41 1HJ

Upcoming dates:

14 March 2024: Spring is in the Air

11 April 2024: Floral Demonstration with Anne Marie Grant

9 May 2024: Talking Plants with John Shannon, Inver Garden Centre

Contact: Maretta Coleman

T. 07968 861808

Antrim Walking Group

Every Wednesday, 10.15am (See page 21 for full programme)

Take strides towards a happier, healthier you. All walks lead by a qualified walk leader.

Contact: Michael Coote

T. 07880 715143

Waveney and Antrim Cardiac Support Group

1st Monday of every month, 7.30pm

Fern House, Antrim Area Hospital

Come along to this peer support group to share experience and begin rebuilding your life after a cardiac event.

Contact: Liz McWilliams

T. 07864 684911

Crumlin United Senior Citizens Club

Every other Wednesday, 2pm–4pm

Crumlin Football Club, Crumlin, BT29 4XL

Enjoy bingo, afternoon tea and a quiz together.

Contact: Maeve Stewart

T. 07759 227034

Antrim Trefoil Guild

Once per month, time and date varies.

The Trefoil Guild offers a varied programme of outings and speakers accompanied by tea and scones. You are welcome for fun, friendship and reminiscing about the Girl Guides.

Contact: Jane Kidd

T. 07818 095010

Carnmoney Parish Church

75 Church Road, Carnmoney, BT36 6DJ

Carnmoney Community Friendship Club, 2nd Wednesday of each month, 2pm

13 March 2024: St Patrick’s Party (booking essential)

10 April 2024: Bingo and a talk from the Bishop of Connor

8 May 2024: Quiz and talk from Military Museum

Knitting Bee, Every Thursday, 10.30am, (Contact Carol T. 07860 696800)

Mothers Union, 4th Tuesday of each month, 2.30pm, (Contact Anne, T. 028 9084 3505)

Social Bowling, 1st Monday of every month, 7.30pm

Contact: Rev Andy Heber

T. 028 9083 6337

Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors’ Forum

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Bowls

Indoor Bowls Ballyclare

(2nd/4th Thursday)

Women’s Drop In 10am (1st Friday of each month)

Ballyclare Men’s Drop In 10.30am (1st Friday of each month)

For venues and more information, contact Robert McQuiston T. 028 9083 8848 or E. antrimandnewtownabbeysf@gmail.com

New! Sixmile Hub, Ballyclare

Monday – Friday, 10am–4pm

44 The Square, Ballyclare, BT39 9BB

Open to everyone over 18. Come along and build new skills such as pyrography, copper work and arts and crafts OR just drop in for a cuppa and a chat. Open to those in Ballyclare and surrounding areas.

Contact: Sixmile Hub T. 07592 183132 or E. sixmilehub@hotmail.com

New! Treasured Memories Café

Last Wednesday of every month, 11.30am

Rathcoole Library, 2 Rosslea Way, BT37 9BJ

Open to those living with dementia or memory loss as well as their family or carers. Everyone welcome.

Contact: Rathcoole Library T. 028 9085 1157

Your Voice Matters in Creating an Age-Friendly Antrim and Newtownabbey

If you’re 50 or older and live in Antrim and Newtownabbey, we invite you to join our consultation sessions. This is your chance to share your real-life experiences of ageing in our Borough. We value your input, and there will be time for discussion to ensure your voice is heard. Your perspective is crucial as we work together to make our community even better for everyone.

Locations

• Monkstown Community Centre – Tues 5 Mar – 2pm

• Dunanney Centre – Wed 6 Mar – 11.30am

• Ballyclare Town Hall – Fri 8 Mar – 10.30am

• Neillsbrook Community Centre – Fri 15 Mar – 10am

• Lillian Bland – Wed 20 Mar – 6.30pm

• Muckamore Community Centre – Wed 27 Mar – 6.30pm

• Crumlin Leisure Centre – Fri 5 Apr – 11am

To sign up E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk T. 028 9034 0160

For more details visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/age-friendly-consultation

Generations Unite: Sharing Joy Everywhere

Our Age Friendly work focuses on making sure people of all ages feel respected and included within the communities they belong to. It is important for younger and older generations to respect each other. Doing intergenerational activities together is a fantastic way to achieve this.

Intergenerational activities are social engagements and interactions, bringing together younger and older generations for a common purpose. Intergenerational activities help us appreciate and value what each age group brings to the community. Nowadays, we’re living longer, and our society is busier, often making it harder for different generations to connect.

By taking part in these activities, we can break down the idea that being a certain

age is a problem. It helps us build real relationships, make friends, and have meaningful conversations with people of all ages.

In December 2023, our Age Friendly Officer facilitated a Christmas Card exchange between Inniscoole Day Centre and Whitehouse Primary School. The project was a big success for both the seniors and the P7 class. The seniors felt happy and a sense of purpose making the cards, and the kids in P7 got to be creative by writing messages about their Christmas wishes.

We’re looking forward to making these connections even stronger, with the hope that the groups can meet in person for some activities in the future.

Would your group like to participate in intergenerational activities? You can register your interest at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/intergenerational-work. Alternatively, E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or T. 028 9034 0160

Cultivate Garden Safety This Spring

Gardening or just getting outside is good for both our mental and physical health. It is important however, that we take care when in our garden and remember the following:

• Maintain pathways and steps ensuring any pot holes or cracks are repaired

• Remove moss or wet leaves to reduce the likelihood of slipping outside

• Adequately light the outside area and ensure lighting is in good working order

• Think about erecting handrails at steps/ walkways in the garden to reduce the risk of falling

• Wear well fitted, supportive footwear that cannot easily slip off

• Have clothes lines at a suitable, accessible height. If not, consider repositioning or purchasing a new one.

• Light barbecues in an open, well ventilated space and never leave children unsupervised near a barbecue, fire-pit or chiminea. Make sure they are fully extinguished when finished. Take care when disposing of barbecues and coals and make sure they have cooled down before putting them in the bin.

• Never decant chemicals into unmarked bottles or jars – keep them in their original containers to avoid any confusion and so the relevant safety advice and instructions are on hand.

Equipment Safety

It can be rewarding and cost-effective to tackle practical jobs around the home and garden but be realistic about the capabilities of you and your tools.

 Always use tools according to the manufacturer’s manual and use the correct protective equipment (e.g. goggles, gloves, safety shoes) for the job.

 Think of the space around you when working with tools so that others can’t be struck with felled branches or debris thrown out by power tools. Those assisting will also need protective equipment, otherwise keep people a safe distance away from the working zone.

 Use an RCD (residual current device) power breaker when working with electrical power tools. These devices shut off the power to the device should the power cord become severed or develop a fault and help prevent electrocution.

Working at Heights

If working at height be sure to use a suitable ladder or platform that gives you a safe, stable workspace and something to hold on to.

• Choose the right ladder and be aware of its Weight Rating

• Always check the ladder is in good condition before using it

• Make sure the ladder is stable (on a level surface that will not give way) before beginning to climb it and ensure any locks/locking bars are locked securely

• Stay stable as you climb and stand on a ladder – hold the ladder with both hands when ascending and descending and always keep one hand holding on to the ladder while working at height

• Stop and disconnect all electrical appliances and tools before repairing or cleaning them. Allow petrol powered tools to fully come to a stop before disconnecting grass boxes or checking blades and moving parts. Ensure safety guards are in place before starting and while using power tools.

• Take care when using electrical appliances outdoors – do not use in damp or wet conditions. If using outside lighting, make sure it is waterproof and rated for outdoor use.

Did you know, if you are aged 65 or over you can avail of a free home safety check?

For more information contact Environmental Health T. 028 9034 0160 or E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or visit the website antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/homesafety

Stay Safe From the Invisible Killer –Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide is a poisonous gas that is colourless and odourless. If inhaled, it can make you seriously ill and can be fatal. It can be released by any appliance or heating system that burns oil, gas or solid fuel, including wood, if it is not properly installed or maintained.

Carbon Monoxide alarms are vital in protecting us from carbon monoxide poisoning. These should be installed in rooms with fuel-burning heating.

It is also advised to service your appliance annually using a gas safe or OFTEC registered engineer. Visit these sites to find out more: www.gassaferegister.co.uk or www.oftec.co.uk/find-technician

To access the full ‘Seasonal Safety’ series or read more about Carbon Monoxide, visit www.nifrs.org/other-safety

Condensation – Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Walls and ceilings, and sometimes floors, can become damp, discoloured and unpleasant as a result of mould growing on the surfaces.

Why does condensation occur?

Condensation happens when warm, wet air meets a cold surface. The chance of this happening depends on how damp the air is and how cold the room surfaces are. The way a building is used also affects this. If the outer wall gets colder than a certain temperature, water droplets (condensation) can form mostly on the lower parts of the outside walls. This might look like rising damp, but it’s usually just regular condensation.

How does condensation occur?

Condensation you can see often occurs for short periods in bathrooms and kitchens because of the steamy air. It can also happen for longer time periods in bedrooms that are not heated well and in places like

cupboards and corners where ventilation is poor. Condensation is visible on some surfaces but it can also damage materials out of site e.g. condensation from roofs.

Here are some top tips to prevent condensation in your home:

1. Ventilate the kitchen well when cooking. If there is an extractor fan, use it, particularly whenever the windows show any sign of misting. Leave the fan on until misting has cleared.

2. If there is not an extractor fan when cooking, open the kitchen windows, but keep internal doors closed as much as possible to avoid moisture spreading to other rooms.

3. When washing is drying in a bathroom or kitchen, open the window or turn on the extractor fan enough to ventilate the room. Again, close the door to avoid moisture spreading to other rooms.

4. After bathing, keep the bathroom window open and shut the door for long enough to dry the room.

5. Did you know that opening the window as a little as 10mm in all rooms were ventilation is required, allows sufficient air flow to reduce the risk of condensation?

6. Where possible, avoid the use of portable paraffin or flueless gas heaters. Each litre of oil used produces the equivalent of about a litre of liquid water in the form of water vapour. If using these heaters, make sure the room is well ventilated.

7. If condensation occurs in a room which has a gas, oil, or solid fuel heating appliance with a flue, the heating installation should be checked, as the condensation may have appeared because the flue has become blocked.

8. Avoid using unventilated airing cupboards for clothes drying.

9. Try to ensure that all rooms are at least partially heated. To prevent condensation, the heat has to keep room surfaces reasonably warm. It takes a long time for structures to warm up, so it is better to have a small amount of heat for a long period than a lot of heat for a short time.

10. In houses, the room(s) directly above a heated room benefit to some extent from heat rising through the floor. In bungalows and flats this does not happen. Some rooms are especially cold because they have a lot of outside walls or lose heat through the roof as well as walls. Even in well insulated houses with reasonable ventilation, during cold weather it is likely to be necessary to maintain all rooms at no less than 10ºc in order to avoid condensation. When living rooms are in use the temperature should be raised to about 20ºc.

Mould growth

Any sign of mould growth is an indication of the presence of moisture. If the mould is caused by condensation, this gives warning that either home heating, structural insulation, ventilation, or all three may require improvement.

New buildings

New buildings often take a long time before they are fully dried out. While this is happening they need extra heat and ventilation. At least during the first winter of use many houses require more heat than they will in subsequent winters. Allowance should be made for this.

Effect of increased ventilation on fuel burning appliances

If an occupier proposes to fix an extractor fan or otherwise change the ventilation in a room containing a gas or solid fuel appliance, he should obtain advice from the installer of the appliance about the risks from toxic fumes.

For further advice, contact: Environmental Health by T. 028 9034 0160 or E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk

Put More Money in Your Pocket with Our Energy Saving Tips

We all need to be mindful of how much energy we use at home, especially with rising energy costs. Saving money on energy is more important than ever. Our ‘Energy Saving Tips’ booklet has practical advice to help you save hundreds of pounds every year on your energy bills. Our top tips cover things like using electrical appliances more efficiently and preventing unnecessary heat loss in your home. The booklet also provides information on programmes including the Oil Stamps Scheme, Energy Efficiency Advice and grants for boiler replacement and insulation.

To

The Recycling Reminder You Have ‘Bin’ Waiting For!

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council boasts the highest recycling rate among all councils in Northern Ireland at 62%. Nevertheless, in a combined effort to minimise landfill waste, there is still room for improvement.

Unsure which bin to use?

Cut out and keep this handy guide, which provides an overview of the items that can go in each bin. For a more comprehensive list, please visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk /recycling.

✓ Meat ✓ Fish & Bones

✓ Fruit & Veg ✓ Egg Shells

✓ Grass Cuttings ✓ Teabags

✓ Coffee Grounds

✓ Textiles

✓ Paper ✓ Cardboard

✓ Plastic Bottles

✓ Cans ✓ Foil

✓ Cardboard ✓ Paper

✓ Food boxes ✓ Egg Boxes

✓ Aerosols ✓ Cartons

✓ Foil ✓ Cans

✓ Plastic Tubs and Bottles

✓ Glass Bottles ✓ Jars Remember to rinse your food containers

✓ Nappies

✓ Plastic Bags/Wrappings

Don't

Bin Collection Calendars

Now that you know what to put in each bin, you just need to know when to put your bin out. If you visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/binchecker you can download a bin collection schedule for the year, which will help you to stay on track. Why not print it out and put it on your fridge for convenience?

If you aren’t able to access the website, please contact our friendly support team T. 028 9034 0056, who will be happy to assist you with bin collection dates or any queries you may have.

Savour Life with a Nutritious Bite

Eating healthy and staying hydrated is crucial at every age. As you get older, your body and daily routine may change. You might eat fewer calories, but it’s still important to get all the necessary nutrients.

Here are some simple tips to improve the nutrition of your meals;

1. Add fruits such as banana or berries to your cereal.

2. Try fresh fruit or raw vegetables as a snack throughout the day.

3. Increase the fibre in your diet by cooking potatoes with the skins on.

4. Snacking on unsalted nuts or seeds can increase the protein in your diet.

5. Low fat natural yoghurt is a great addition to curries or chilli dishes whilst also increasing your dairy intake.

6. Fish is fantastic – try to get two portions of mackerel, salmon or sardines (oily fish) per week.

7. Reduce salt by using fresh ingredients or by buying tinned vegetables and pulses without added salt.

8. If buying tinned fruit, choose those in natural juice rather than syrup.

9. How do you like your eggs? Poach or scramble them for a healthy alternative.

10. Try swapping sugary drinks for milk or water throughout the day.

For more information and healthy recipes visit www.choosetolivebetter.com

What’s on the menu?

Omlette

Shopping list:

 2 Eggs

 Oil (1 teaspoon)

 1 Small Onion (Peeled and Chopped)

 1 Clove of Garlic (Peeled and crushed)

 Frozen Peas (25g / A handful)

 Tomatoes (2 Peeled and Chopped)

 ½ green or red pepper (Deseeded and chopped)

 1 Medium Potato (Peeled and Cubed)

How to Cook:

1. Boil the potato for 8-10 minutes.

2. Whilst this is cooking – fry the onion, pepper and garlic for 5 minutes (until soft). Then add the peas, drained potatoes and tomatoes to the frying pan.

3. Beat the eggs together in a bowl then pour into the frying pan over the vegetables.

4. Cook for 5 minutes then place the omelette in the pan under the grill for 3-5 minutes until the egg is set and golden.

Connected Cafés, Brewing Up Conversation

Building strong connections is one of the five steps to wellbeing and it has numerous benefits. These include a greater sense of happiness and security, lower levels of anxiety and depression, and an increased sense of purpose.

The Antrim and Newtownabbey Loneliness Network has introduced an initiative called

‘Connected Cafes.’ Businesses participating in this programme have set aside specific tables where customers can sit if they’re open to connecting with others over a cup of tea or coffee.

Take a look at the list below and start fostering those connections!

Let’s Talk Pension Credit with Community Advice Antrim and Newtownabbey

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges.

Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension.

You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, a pension, savings or own your own home. Even a small award of Pension Credit can provide access to a wide range of other benefits.

Pension Credit tops up:

• Your weekly income to £201.05 if you’re single

• Your joint weekly income to £306.85 if you have a partner.

If your income is higher, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, you care for someone, you have savings, you have housing costs or you are responsible for a child.

You could get an extra £76.40 per week of Pension Credit if you receive Attendance Allowance or a similar disability benefit.

You could get an extra £42.75 a week if you are a carer, either getting Carer’s Allowance or you’ve claimed Carer’s Allowance but are not being paid because you already get another benefit paying a higher amount. This is known as underlying entitlement to Carer’s Allowance.

A claim can be made by phoning the Northern Ireland Pension Centre’s Pension Credit Application Line T. 0808 100 6165.

It is always worthwhile to get advice before making a claim for Pension Credit. Community Advice Antrim & Newtownabbey (CAAN) provides advice that is free, independent, confidential and impartial to everyone on their rights and responsibilities. Contact them by T. 028 9590 6505 or visit www.communityadvicean.co.uk for details of your local service.

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 financial abuse in older people

Abrupt

Unexplained withdrawals of large sums of money

Unpaid bills or overdue rent, when someone else is supposed to be paying the bills

Disappearance of funds or valuable possessions

Lack of amenities that the person should usually be able to afford

Helpline - 0808 808 8141

www.wearehourglass.org

New Veterans’ Breakfast Club

A new breakfast club has been set up at the Ulster Transport Bowling Club, Jordanstown taking place on the first Saturday of each month from 10am onwards and will complement the wellestablished veterans’ breakfast club held every month in the Masonic Hall in Antrim.

They also meet socially at Regimental/Association Dinners, nights out, BBQ’s, parties, family occasions, Summer Balls, Christmas parties, and we network among the variety of trades we all now work in.

Sign up to a breakfast club at www.afvbc.world

Help and Advice for Families Coping with Dementia

When families are battling the symptoms of dementia, each day brings new difficulties and challenges, and it can be easy to become isolated.

For other families, who have not yet received a diagnosis of dementia, but are worried that someone they love might be developing the illness, it can be difficult to contemplate the long road ahead.

Whatever stage you are at in your dementia journey it’s important to reach out and ask for help. The charity’s helpline and team of local dementia advisers are available to provide advice, reassurance and emotional support before and after diagnosis. Here are some key facts provided by Alzheimer’s Society for anyone who is worried or anxious about dementia:

1. Early diagnosis is important

Diagnosis makes it easier to get the help you need. If someone you care for is reluctant to seek a diagnosis it may help to show them some articles from Alzheimer’s Society website or speak to the charity’s helpline. You can also speak to your GP about your concerns.

2. Dementia is not a natural part of getting older

It’s natural to become a little more forgetful as we age but there are also other symptoms to look out for. Common symptoms of dementia include confusion when carrying out daily tasks, problems with language and understanding such as having trouble following a conversation, or changes in behaviour. The changes may be small to start with but become more noticeable over time.

Dementia is not just about memory loss. Memory problems are a common early sign

of dementia, but this is not necessarily the case for everyone. A person with early-stage dementia might ask for the same information repeatedly or forget something they were recently told. But dementia can also affect the way people think, speak, perceive things, feel and behave.

Try to stay connected – get out and about!

Staying connected with others is vital for wellbeing. Evidence shows that loneliness is harmful for our health. This goes for everyone! Whether you’re hoping to avoid dementia, are already living with it, or are a carer for someone with the illness, try to find opportunities to socialise whenever possible. More and more communities and venues are becoming dementia-friendly and training their staff as Dementia Friends. Alzheimer’s Society’s helpline can signpost you to groups in your local area where you will be made very welcome.

Explore the World Outside Your Door, Visit Our Local Parks

There are many wonderful parks and gardens throughout Antrim and Newtownabbey. The jewel in the crown is undoubtedly the beautifully restored 400year old Antrim Castle Gardens; its Anglo Dutch canals, ponds and avenues provide a unique walkway into the past, along with the recently opened Platinum Jubilee Garden, designed by Diarmuid Gavin and filled with stunning flowers and innovative features such as the ‘Clockwork Garden’.

If you enjoy relaxing by the water’s edge, then you can choose between the fresh water delights at Antrim Lough Shore Park on the shores of Lough Neagh, or the crisp sea air of Jordanstown Loughshore Park. There are great views, whichever way you look!

Further along the shores of Belfast Lough is Hazelbank Park, where the Coronation Garden was opened last year by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The garden is an ornate three floor pavilion topped by a crown, and has been planted out in a pollinator friendly and sustainable way reflecting some of the great loves of His Majesty.

The Council is continuing to improve both access and facilities in our parks and open spaces. This in turn will allow more of our residents to get closer to nature, socialise with others and take part in outdoor recreation, all of which goes some way to improve our physical and mental health.

With that in mind, a series of events is being delivered at our key sites in 2024. These will include:

Nordic Walking, suitable for all abilities. Each guided walk will include information and training on use Nordic Poles. The taster sessions (11am–12pm) are as follows:

Date Venue

21 March 2024 Crumlin Glen

28 March 2024 Antrim Castle Gardens

14 April 2024

Sixmilewater Park, Ballyclare

Foraging events, delivered by ‘Wild Walk Bushcraft Adventures’ (12pm–2pm), where you can find out what nature can provide for us in the form of food, medicine or usefulness!

Date Venue

6 April 2024

13 April 2024

Sixmilewater Park, Ballyclare

Threemilewater Park, Newtownabbey

20 April 2024 Whiteabbey Glen

‘RSPB Antrim’ will also be leading a series of walks and talks where you can learn about local wildlife in Hazelbank Park on 26 March 2024. Upcoming dates are being confirmed for April and May.

Finally, keep an eye out for our “Get to Know Bees” event at Sentry Hill in Newtownabbey on 28 May 2024.

Antrim Walking Group Programme

March – May 2024

Wed

Wed

Wed

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.

Walking Netball

Walking netball is a slower version of the game. It has been designed so anyone can play regardless of age or fitness level – book online or via the app.

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

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.

Ballyearl Leisure Centre: Monday, 6–7pm

Valley Leisure Centre: Tuesday, 6–7pm

Crumlin Leisure Centre: Tuesday, 6–7pm

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 in Arts and Culture This Spring?

The Forget-Me-Notes Community

Singing Group

Every Friday (except Good Friday 29 Mar) // 10.30am–12pm // The Courtyard Theatre

This community singing group is an enjoyable, welcoming and supportive group for those who enjoy singing and meeting new people. The group focuses on fun, and no previous singing experience is necessary.

Tea Dance

10 Apr, 1 May & 5 Jun // 2–4pm // The Old Courthouse

20 Mar, 24 Apr, 29 May & 26 Jun // 2–4pm // Ballyclare Town Hall

Join Double Trouble for some great tunes from all eras.

Adm £3 book online or pay at the door.

Sound of Music

Thur 21 Mar – Sat 23 Mar // Theatre at The Mill

Award winning local company, Fortwilliam Musical Society, is delighted to be returning this year to bring you Rodgers and Hammersteins all-time favourite The Sound of Music. With an exceptional cast this promises to be a sensational production.

Ceílí Dance

4 Apr, 2 May & 6 Jun // 2–4pm // The Old Courthouse

Ever thought of learning Ceílí dancing or simple 2-hand dances? Come along to our fully instructed classes by Ronan Eastwood. No need to have Ceílí danced before, no partner needed although by all means bring a spouse, sibling or friend. Adm £3 book online or pay at the door.

The Phantom of the Opera

Tue 30 Apr – Sun 5 May // Theatre at The Mill

Belfast Operatic Company is delighted to be bringing Andrew Lloyd Webbers world famous musical masterpiece The Phantom Of The Opera to audiences - experience the thrill of musical theatres biggest love story.

Jive Aces

Tue 7 May // 7.45pm // Theatre

at The Mill

The Jive Aces have been keeping the show on the road for three decades. With their trademark yellow suits and a repertoire that stretches from the timeless tunes of the swing era to the glitz of the Rat Pack with a dash of classic rock & roll, they perform songs in their unique upbeat style.

Ballyclare May Fair

Sat 18 – Sat 25 May // Ballyclare

In 2024, the Ballyclare May Fair will be returning to tradition with a vibrant celebration to captivate the community and revive the cherished customs of years gone by. There’s lots to look forward to including an Ulster Scotch History of Whisk(e)y, Artisan Markets as well as Cooking and Craic with Paula McIntyre. Culture lovers will appreciate the Ulster Scots Language Workshops and Cèilidh, Craft Demos and Historical Walking Tours and not forgetting the Vintage Car Show.

Armed Forces Day

Sat 22 June // 10am–5pm // Jordanstown Loughshore Park

Northern Ireland’s Armed Forces Day event will transform Jordanstown Loughshore Park into a lively venue for all. From active service personnel to service families, veterans and cadets, enjoy a day filled with entertainment, military displays, live demonstrations and more. This is an event 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

Booking can also be made online by visiting theatreatthemill.com

13 APRIL

MOSSLEY MILL

SPRING PLANT FAIR

14 – 16 JUNE

ANTRIM CASTLE GARDENS

GARDEN EXTRAVAGANZA

Just For Fun

Spring Word Search

Find the following words in the puzzle. Words are hidden and

April Showers

Blossoms

Bluebells

Butterflies

If