Age Well Here launch

A new publication backed by local NHS practices, Coin Street and community partners aims to create a “one-stop shop” for ageing well in Waterloo, the South Bank and neighbouring areas.

This community-led directory is designed to help older people live independently, stay connected and access local support is launching this month in Waterloo.

Age Well Here is a unique publication, for a neighbourhood community that crosses borough boundaries. It has been created by a growing network of local residents, volunteers, health professionals and community organisations with a shared ambition to help older people remain in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. 

The publication has been endorsed by three local NHS medical practices, the North Lambeth Primary Care Network, Coin Street and SoWN (South Bank and Waterloo Neighbours). Two thousand printed copies are now being distributed across the area, with more than 1,300 already requested by 35 local groups and organisations. 

The directory brings together advice, services, activities and support for older people and those who care for them, covering everything from health and wellbeing services, community activities, thinking ahead, care options, enjoying life and staying independent.

The project was initiated by a small Elders group in Waterloo, which came together in 2022 and has since grown from six members to more than 80 people.

Carole Milner, the lead organiser behind the project, said: “Age Well Here has truly been a labour of neighbourly love. Beyond the publication itself, the work that has gone into it has built relationships, raised awareness and will, we hope, help us all navigate the years ahead; happily, and successfully.

It quickly became clear there was no single, accessible source of information for older people in our area. We hope Age Well Here becomes a practical and trusted resource for local people, carers and professionals alike, and a model that others can take up and build on."

The directory has been produced in partnership with specialist publisher CareChoices and funded through community fundraising, including support from Lambeth Estate Residents Association (LERA) and private donations. Alongside printed copies, the publication will also be available online as an accessible e-book with options to enlarge text, download as a PDF and use accessibility tools via Recite Me. 

The launch event for Age Well Here takes place on Wednesday 27 May from 6pm to 8pm at the Coin Street neighbourhood centre, 108 Stamford Street with entertainment from Lambeth North Music Hall and refreshments provided by Audley Nightingale Place. 

The wider initiative also includes work exploring neighbour-to-neighbour support models and long-term ambitions for more local care provision for older people in the area, including future nursing home provision connected to Coin Street’s long-term plans for Site 9 at Prince’s/Gabriel’s Wharf. 

Carole Milner added: “One of the biggest lessons we have learned is that this work matters not just to older people, but to anyone caring, being cared for, or thinking ahead about ageing well and staying connected to community.”

Residents and community members wishing to attend the launch can register online here: Age Well Here launch registration