Community Noticeboard scheme aims to keep people in the loop
A new Community Noticeboard is being launched to help people in North Tyneside access information about local activities, events, groups, services and support - particularly those who are not online.
The initiative is part of the council’s Age-Friendly Borough programme, with the borough being part of the World Health Organisation's Age-Friendly Network.
People can sign up to receive regular printable updates containing information about local activities, services, events and support.
These can then be displayed in libraries, cafés, community centres, health settings, supported living schemes, workplaces and local businesses - helping important information reach people who may not regularly use the internet.
The Community Noticeboard has been developed in partnership with Age UK North Tyneside and Healthwatch North Tyneside.
Cllr Janet Hunter, North Tyneside Council's Older People's Champion, said: "We know that not everyone accesses information online, but staying informed and connected to the community is important at every stage of life.
"Our new Community Noticeboard is a simple idea that can make a real difference.
"By sharing information in places people visit every day, we can help more residents find out about activities, services, support and opportunities happening in their local area.
"Our Age-Friendly work is focused on helping people stay active, connected and involved in their communities, and make North Tyneside a great place to grow older."
Dawn McNally, chief executive of Age UK North Tyneside, said: "Access to good information helps people stay connected, independent and engaged.
"We are delighted to support the Community Noticeboard, which will help ensure older residents, particularly those who are not online, can easily find out about local activities, services, support and opportunities.”
The noticeboard supports one of the key priorities identified by older residents as part of North Tyneside's Age-Friendly programme - improving access to clear and accessible information.
Other areas of work include creating better outdoor spaces, promoting respect and social inclusion, supporting the development of neighbourhood networks and giving older residents opportunities to help shape local services through the Older People's Involvement Network (OPIN), led by Age UK North Tyneside in partnership with Healthwatch North Tyneside.
Residents, community groups, businesses and organisations which would like to receive and share Community Noticeboard updates can sign up online at https://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/agefriendly