MANX LOTTERY TRUST HELPS AGE CONCERN ISLE OF MAN TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Manx Lottery Trust has offered its support to a project which will improve the health and wellbeing of people aged 50 and over in the north of the Isle of Man.
A grant of £21,000 has been awarded to Age Concern Isle of Man to help fund elements of its new venture ‘The Ace Place’, which is based in Parliament Street in Ramsey, next door to its popular shop.
The Charity will use the space to provide information and activities including well-being sessions, social opportunities, discovery and learning events, creative classes and information on how to keep your mind and body healthy.
Age Concern Isle of Man has refurbished the building to create a warm, comfortable, friendly and welcoming environment, which is easy for people to access. The funding from Manx Lottery has been used towards the purchase of a specialist low-riser platform lift to enable access for people with mobility impairments.
Helen Southworth from Age Concern Isle of Man said: ‘For 26 years Age Concern Isle of Man has been serving our Island community and we are delighted to be starting this new venture.
‘Our 50+ health and wellbeing initiative for Ramsey and the north has been developed in partnership with hundreds of local older people, who told us they wanted improved access to quality information on ageing and health, helping them to get the best out of life as they grow older.
‘They want opportunities to meet up with others for a chat, to have a laugh, learn new things and join in activities which keep their minds and bodies healthy. Many older people – particularly those living alone – said how important it is to have someone to talk to in confidence, in a safe, comfortable and friendly environment.
‘Although we’re only just starting the venture we have already received fantastic feedback and enthusiasm from local people. For more information on what’s on, or to join as a volunteer, either call in for a chat in Ramsey or phone us on 631740. You will be very welcome.
‘I’d like to say a huge thank you to Manx Lottery Trust. Its support has been really important in securing this specialist equipment and helping to make this new project happen.’
Sarah Kelly, Chairman of the Manx Lottery Trust, said: ‘We are pleased to support Age Concern Isle of Man on its mission to improve the health and wellbeing of the northern community. It’s a great space for older people to make friends, enjoy creative and social activities and have fun.’
