Today, the North City Nomads group took 240 elderly people in five coaches on a day out to Lytham St Annes. It was organised by 15 volunteers and everyone had the option of activities such as shopping and walking along the promenade. By giving the people of North Manchester the opportunity to go out and make new friends, it encourages the reduction of social isolation and encourages new and wider friendship groups.
A particular lady who is on this trip today lost her husband a year and a half ago. Days out like this help her grieving process by taking her mind off things, doing things she enjoys and making new friends.
Since the North City Nomads project began in 2015, volunteers have organised and delivered nine highly successful outings and have a further two trips planned for 2017. The project has been developed and supported by the Age Friendly Manchester team to provide days out for older people living in north Manchester. It has over 800 members and a team of 14 volunteers.
Members often report feeling better, happier, finding new friendships, and having something to look forward to since joining the group.
The project is based at Whitemoss Club for Young People in Blackley, which caters for children from 6 to 19 and also for senior citizens, aiming to bridge the gap between ages, with a regular luncheon club and a range of other activities.
