 Launch of very first Age Friendly Leisure Standards at International Day of Older People 2025
It was International Day of Older People (IDOP) Oct 1 and at the Age Friendly Manchester Assembly we launched the first Age Friendly Leisure Standards in the country. AFM Board and Assembly members had their say earlier in the year about what they need from a leisure centre in order for it to be accessible and Age Friendly. GLL (the UKs largest Leisure service provider), McrActive and the AFM Team with support from the Centre for Ageing Better - linked to their new Age Friendly Business Framework worked together with AFM Board to codesign the standards. McrActive and GLL came along to the Assembly and gave more information to people about how to get involved with their local centre. Read more about it here: Manchester Launches Age Friendly Leisure Standards
The event was a great success with around 60 people celebrating what older people bring to the city, people brought along objects that helped them to tell stories about their lives as the theme for this year's day was social connections. Martin Purdy, from Sing Yourself to Better Health ran a singing workshop and volunteers from Wai Yin sang Cantonese Opera.
 Black History Month
October is Black History Month (BHM) in the UK – a month to celebrate Black heritage and culture.
Embracing the powerful theme ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride,’ this celebration honours the enduring strength, creativity and resilience of the Black diaspora. From acts of resistance during enslavement, to the vibrant spirit of carnival, to the proud legacy of activism and community organising across Manchester.
Black History Month in 2025 calls for the everyone to acknowledge the strength and commitment of those that came before us to truly stand proud in what Black culture, identity and societal progress means today. See Manchester City Council Press Release and links.
It’s an important event that shines a light on important people and events that have had a huge impact, yet often go missed in our history. Above all, Black History Month is a time to recognise Black culture and achievement; to inspire and share the pride people have in their heritage.
Take your pick from theatre shows, talks, film screenings and family activities. There are many events happening in Manchester for BHM 2025.
Check out BHM events in the libraries here.
 World Menopause Day 2025 - Whitworth Art Gallery
Visible and Vocal event - The gallery invites you to their World Menopause Day Event. Hear from a panel, question, be creative, share experiences and be 'Visible and Vocal'.
This event for World Menopause Day is organised by the Whitworth Age Friendly Programme as an on-going project focussed on creativity as part of the menopause journey. The Creative Menopause series explored how being creative can support you in practical ways as well as supporting your physical and mental health.
Where: The Whitworth, Oxford Road Manchester, M15 6ER
When: October 10:30am – 4:00pm Sunday October 19, 2025
More information and Book Here
 Let’s Quit Tobacco Together
Join Us at the Stoptober Health Event 14 Oct 2025
Whether it’s your first time quitting, you’ve tried before or you would like to support someone else in quitting, drop by our free Stoptober Health Event this October. Get practical advice, friendly support, free health checks and refreshments. Join the team for a brew and let’s quit tobacco together!
More information on Be Smoke Free - Manchester
 New Report: Supporting Older Disabled Workers
Disabled older workers are almost twice as likely to experience negative treatment when applying for jobs or promotions than their non-disabled peers, new research from the Centre for Ageing Better published in National Inclusion Week reveals.
More than two in five (44%) Disabled people aged between 50 and 66 years old felt they had experienced negative treatment when applying for jobs or promotions in the past five years, compared to one in four (25%) non-Disabled people of the same age, the newly published Supporting Disabled Older Workers project report details.
Video including Rohina a member of the AFM Older People’s Assembly:
https://youtu.be/oAdLiry9CKA
Report here:
The double prejudice facing Disabled older workers | Centre for Ageing Better
 MCC Adult Safeguarding Campaign
Safeguarding can be challenging – a term often misunderstood or even feared – and a role of social care that can be distressing for people.
Manchester City Council have launched a new campaign to help people know more about what safeguarding is and how to access safeguarding support for themselves or people they know.
If you have a safeguarding concern about yourself or someone else, contact Manchester City Council on 0161 234 5001 or email: mcsreply@manchester.gov.uk
To find out more about adult safeguarding in Manchester, visit: www.manchester.gov.uk/report-abuse-neglect
 Concessionary pass trial on buses in November
Throughout August, Transport for Greater Manchester ran a trial to allow older and disabled TfGM concessionary pass holders to travel on buses before 9.30am for free.
Transport for Greater Manchester is now considering the results of the trial and feedback received by those who took part.
The Mayor has announced that a second trial period will take place this November.
The trial is just for travel on bus, and does not include tram or train.
About the trial
TfGM want to make travel easier and more affordable for everyone. The trial will allow eligible pass holders to get out to work, healthcare, leisure and shops round the clock.
- Trial takes place on buses from 1 to 30 November 2025.
- Unlimited, free bus travel is valid for TfGM issued older person's or disabled person's travel pass holders only.
- Available on Bee Network buses, not on trams and trains.
- Passes also accepted before 9.30am on non-Bee Network buses within the Greater Manchester boundary only.
As well as free early morning travel, the trial will allow pass holders to use the Bee Network's night buses as well.
Next steps
At the end of the trial period, from 1 December, you can continue to use your pass as normal, from 9.30am to 12am (Monday to Friday) and all day, weekends and bank holidays.
The trial is being held to look at the impact of lifting the 9.30am restriction on peak bus services and those shortly after 9.30am.
At the end of the trial we will assess the evidence, including analysing passenger feedback, and bus and pass use, before a decision is made on whether the move can be made permanent.
 Scam Alert: Winter Fuel Payments
On 9 June 2025, the Government announced that they are reinstating the Winter Fuel Payment for everyone over the State Pension age in England and Wales.
Anyone with an income of, or below, £35,000 a year will get the Winter Fuel Payment this winter. You do not need to do anything! Just regularly check your fuel statement. The payment of £200 per household, or £300 per household (where there is someone over the age of 80), will be made automatically to help with heating bills this winter.
However, there are reports of people being contacted out of the blue regarding the upcoming Winter Fuel Payment. This is a scam!
Scammers are offering to help setup the Winter Fuel Payment and asking pensioners for their bank details. Never give out any personal information. A genuine organisation will never ask you for these details over the phone, in an email or in writing.
The government has said you do not need to do anything regarding the receipt of Winter Fuel Payments. These will be made automatically. No one will contact you directly.
You can report suspicious texts at stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk.
Visit the UK Government website to learn more about your eligibility and view the timetable of payments this winter.
 New Age UK Report – Ageing While Black
New Report exposing the inequalities faced by older Black people in the UK.
A call to action based on their new report exposing the specific inequalities faced by older Black people in the UK, highlighting systemic issues like low income, health disparities, and insecure housing as lasting impacts of historical injustices. The organization emphasizes the need for tailored support and commits to working towards dignity, fairness, and equality in later life for this disproportionately affected group.
Key points from the report:
The report details how Black older people face significant challenges due to systemic inequalities rooted in slavery, colonialism, and institutional racism.
These inequalities manifest in areas like:
- Financial Security: Higher rates of poverty and lower retirement savings compared to White pensioners.
- Health: Poorer health outcomes and a longer-term impact on health than their White counterparts of the same age.
- Housing: Greater risk of living in unsafe or insecure housing.
 Access 4 All - Rehabilitation for People with Long-Term Conditions
The project is focused on improving access to rehabilitation for people living with long-term conditions across Greater Manchester, ensuring that every community’s voice is heard.
At the moment:
- Running a short, anonymous survey for individuals living with long-term conditions.
- Conducting 1-to-1 interviews to capture personal stories in more depth.
Sharing the survey link https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/rk7Pyqrq23 with your members, networks, and community contacts.
Please contact below if any individuals might be open to a 1-to-1 interview.
As part of this work, they will also be hosting a celebration event – Access4All: Reimagining Rehabilitation Through Community Voices – on Wednesday 5th November, 14:00–16:30 in Manchester. The event will showcase lived experience, community voices, and creative performances, alongside health and community partners
Please contact gregg.stevenson@stu.mmu.ac.uk, PhD Student, Lead Researcher Access 4 All for more information.
 Find out more about Autumn/Winter Vaccinations
There are several important steps you can take to help protect yourself and your family this season. Get vaccinated.
During the colder months, viruses common in winter can make some people very unwell, potentially leading to serious health complications that may require hospital care. In some cases, these illnesses can even be life-threatening.
Therefore, this autumn and winter, the NHS is offering free vaccines to those most at risk of catching flu, Covid, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). By getting your vaccinations, you not only reduce your own risk but also help prevent spreading viruses to others – helping to protect your family and community.
All NHS vaccines have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
Covid and Flu are available from 1st October 2025 to help you get protected ahead of the colder months. However, it’s best to get your vaccinations as soon as possible to maximize your protection.
Take action now to help you and your loved ones stay healthy and happy this winter.
Check which vaccines you are eligible for and learn how to get them. Don’t miss out on enjoying all the activities you love during this busy time of year.
Find out which vaccines you are eligible for.
Find out more about winter vaccines and winter health.
 Work with Age UK Manchester
Do you want a job with purpose? And to work for an independent Mancunian charity who supports those in need of support? Age UK Manchester have a number of Home Care roles in South Manchester. You will have individual responsibility to deliver compassionate and empathetic home care to adults within their own homes. You'll perform a wide range of duties, which may include personal care, with the aim of creating a supportive environment where service users can achieve maximum independence.
The hours are flexible, so ideal for working around other duties, such as childcare. There is an enhanced pay rate at weekends and bank holidays. To find out more about this role and to apply, visit Age UK Manchester’s website: Work with Age UK Manchester
 New rules for postal voting
If you applied for a postal vote before 30 October 2023 then you will need to reapply before 31 January 2026 however Manchester City Council are urging people to take action now. You should have already received an email or letter detailing what the next steps are but if you need more information then please call 0161 234 1212 for advice.
 Get Online Week with the Digital Inclusion team!
Get Online Week is Good Things Foundation's annual digital inclusion campaign focused on enabling people to discover the benefits of being online, and to build their confidence in using the internet - reducing the digital divide.
Get Online Week runs from the 20th - 26th of October 2025 and the theme this year is to try one new thing! The Digital Inclusion team will be hosting two public events, one in Central Library and one in Gorton Hub.
Tuesday 21st October – Central Library
Central Library will be buzzing with activity on Tuesday between 1pm and 4pm, with a 3D printing demonstration, the opportunity to explore your family history online and a marketplace of stalls providing a wealth of digital inclusion support and knowledge.
Thursday 23rd October – Gorton Hub
Visit the Atrium at Gorton Hub between 1pm-4pm to find out more about digital inclusion services from a range of providers. You will find NHS App support, Citizens Advice, AbilityNet, One Manchester and the JobCentre, plus the library team will be helping you download free e-books with BorrowBox. Multiple workshops will be on offer throughout the afternoon, including tips and tricks to stay safe online, using online tools to boost your career opportunities and communicating and sharing online.
Visit this link to find out more about both events, and book your space on one (or more!) of our exciting workshops!
For more information, you can contact the Digital Inclusion team by texting 07860064128 or emailing digitalinclusion@manchester.gov.uk
 Chetham's this Autumn
Take a lunch break and enjoy this free recital by some of the UK’s most exciting young musicians!
Discover the UK’s next big talent with concerts featuring remarkable Chetham’s School of Music performers, aged 8-18, from the UK’s leading music school with multiple days in October.
You can find the programmes and free booking for upcoming concerts here.*
Chetham’s Lunchtime Concerts Food and Drink
Alongside tea and coffee available to purchase at our Chetham’s Lunchtime concerts, from September 2025 we will have a hot soup lunch offer for concert goers to enjoy.
Chetham’s Relaxed Lunchtime Concerts
Wednesday 1 October, Wednesday 5 November, Wednesday 3 December at 1.30pm
Chetham’s Relaxed Lunchtime Concerts return to Manchester’s Stoller Hall, with performances by fantastic young musicians from Chetham’s School of Music.
The seating brings you closer to the performers and their instruments to give you a truly memorable experience. You are welcome to get a hot drink and chat to others before and after the music.
These events are perfect if you’re looking to encounter the world of classical music in an informal environment.
Tickets are free. You can booked advance online at chethamsschoolofmusic.com, or by calling the Stoller Hall box office on 0333 130 0967 open Tuesday – Thursday 1.30pm – 4pm.
*Please note that as our students are still developing their musical skills, there may be last minute changes to programmes. Thank you for your understanding.
NCHS: Meditation in Nature, Menopause Awareness Month
Meditation in Nature is an opportunity for you to switch-off and experience a deep sense of calm whilst enjoying the beauty of the grounds at The Whitworth. When we are mindful in nature, we are able to be in the present moment much quicker than if we were indoors. At the end of the session, you will experience feeling lighter, less stressed and having a sense that you have connected to something bigger than yourself. These sessions are delivered by our Natural and Cultural Health Service Partner, Lilasuri (Claire) Morris from Wild Awake Mindfulness.
When: Thursday 16 October, 6 - 7pm
Where: Alex Bernstein Garden,Whitworth, Oxford Rd Manchester M15 6ER
Register here.
 Feel Good Fitness
Every Tuesday evening - for all ages & abilities with seated options provided (completely inclusive).
Every week is different from Zumba to boxing, stretching & toning and classes based on what participants enjoy
Where: Methodist Church, 1 Mercer Road, M18 8JR
When: Tuesdays at 5:30pm
Contact: Sam 079740912271, profsamenglish@gmail.com
Cost: £5 per class
Yoga and Mindfulness for Menopause
Thursday 16th October 1:30 – 3:30pm
Celebrate World Menopause Week with a morning of replenishing self care. Learn how yoga and Mindfulness can help manage menopause symptoms.
Yoga and mindfulness can help you manage symptoms of perimenopause and menopause through a combination of yoga poses, breathing techniques and meditation practices.
This gentle practice fosters body positivity and is accessible to everybody, whatever your size, shape or ability. You can expect to feel stronger, calmer and more self-confident, with more tools and resources to help you through this natural transition
When: 1:30-3:30pm Thursday, Oct 16
Where: The Whitworth, Oxford Road Manchester, M15 6ER
Book Here
Free six week building a healthy future course run by Manchester Mind
Do you live with a long-term physical condition? Would you like to learn tried-and-tested tools and techniques to help improve your mood, lower your stress, and manage anxiety or worry? Manchester Mind’s next free week course starts on 10 November. All sessions are held live on zoom, and we can help if you’re rusty or haven’t used it before.
Sessions take place 12 – 2pm from 10 November, and there are six in total.
More information and sign up: Manchester Mind BAHF Course
 FREE ENGLISH CLASSES in Manchester!
Come learn, share & flourish with Rise and Flourish! These fun and friendly sessions are a great way to improve your English, share stories, and meet new people in the community. For levels from Entry 3 to Level 1
When (monthly): 10:30am-12:30pm on 21 Oct, 18 Nov, 9 & 23 Dec.
Where: Longsight Library & Learning Centre, 519 Stockport Rd, Longsight, Manchester M12 4NE
Call: 07404 072083 or email: Riseandflourish0@gmail.com
 Intergenerational Climate Cafe
What is an Intergenerational Climate Cafe?
An Intergenerational Climate Cafe is a welcoming, action-free community space for people all ages to have open conversations about how climate change makes us feel. We particularly encourage the participation of students and people aged 50+. Over drinks and snacks we’ll have an informal and confidential conversation, supported by experienced facilitators. You can choose to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
This is a great opportunity for people all ages to come together and discuss common challenges.
Participants will encounter a curated selection of Manchester Museum's Natural History collection objects close-up during the session.
The Intergenerational Climate Cafe is free and will take place in Manchester Museum’s Top Floor Space. Free drinks and snacks (including vegan and gluten free options) will be provided.
When: 1:00-2:30pm, Tuesday 11 November
Where: Manchester Museum, Oxford Road
You can find this event on Eventbrite, or alternatively, you can book your place by emailing maria.ramosacevedo@manchester.ac.uk or by calling 07818 578 474
Why are Climate Cafes significant?
The climate and ecological crisis is the greatest threat facing our planet today. In response, we are seeing a rise in anxiety, fear and overwhelm globally.
We need spaces to navigate these emotions in solidarity with a global community already experiencing the impacts of the climate crisis. In this way we can come together, share openly and honestly and reflect on how we can navigate the climate crisis to build a more sustainable world.
The Manchester Museum Climate Café programme has been developed with the support of the Climate Psychology Alliance.
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