Age Friendly Manchester E-Bulletin Issue 256 - October 2026
Manchester City Council sent this bulletin at 29-09-2026 03:02 PM BST
E-Bulletin Issue 256 – October 2026
Your monthly update of news, events, information and resources for Manchester's older residents.
The Age-Friendly Manchester Team
Established in 2003 as Valuing Older People, Age-Friendly Manchester is a partnership involving organisations, groups and individuals across the city playing their part in making Manchester a great place to grow older.
News
Manchester City Council recognises leaders in Age Friendly Manchester
A special moment at September's Full Manchester City Council meeting as the Deputy Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Jill Lovecy, recognised Susan Cooley and Elaine Unegbu for their incredible contribution to Manchester’s Age Friendly journey.
For more than 20 years, Sue as Councillor and Elaine as Age Friendly Manchester (AFM) Older People's Board member and Chair, have championed older people’s voices, helped drive positive change, and made a lasting difference to our city. Both were awarded Honorary Lifetime Membership of the AFM Board.
A universal offer: International Day of Older Persons
HAPPI Hour Webinar
This week’s HAPPI Hour webinar has been moved to 4pm on Thursday for a special session marking International Day of Older People. Co-chaired by Siobhan Casey, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, the webinar will bring together senior figures from all four nations to discuss how each is shaping its housing and care offer for an ageing population.
The session will also feature Elaine Unegbu from the Age Friendly Manchester Older People's Board, following her recent appearance on BBC Breakfast, who will share how older people's voices have successfully influenced local planning and development. Register your place now.
Black History Month is both a time to celebrate and a time to learn about Black history and culture. A wide range of events are held celebrating African and Caribbean cultures and histories, including everything from food festivals to music workshops, educational seminars and lectures. Black History Month is an opportunity to start conversations about race, and celebrate Black African and Caribbean diverse communities and individuals, each of whom play a fundamental role within British society and history.
The Whitworth Art Gallery is holding an event for world menopause day as part of our Age Friendly Creative Menopause project. We have run workshops and events over the last four years that have explored the questions;
Does creativity help us navigate perimenopause and menopause?
Does menopause affect the way we create?
The focus on creativity and menopause has informed the World Menopause Day events held at the Whitworth which have brought together creatives with lived experience as well as health professionals to continue the theme.ee
We would be grateful if you could share this opportunity with your networks, colleagues and anyone you know who may be interested in applying. We are keen to attract a diverse range of applicants from across Manchester to support the Community Forum. We are particularly keen to hear from: Armed Forces veterans, care-experienced people and care leavers and residents living in Wythenshawe.
Applicants must be aged 18 or over and live and/or work in Manchester.
Thank you for your support in helping us reach more people with this opportunity.
Attached are some PDFs that could be sent alongside the link. Please feel free to use these to share with your networks.
Below is a link to our promotional video, please do share this with contacts and colleagues:
What are the vital considerations for designing public spaces that meet the needs of an ageing population? From public buildings to parks, from streets to bus stops, our Age-friendly quick guide collection outlines how to design a built environment that supports the health and wellbeing of residents of all ages. This webinar will talk you through our evidence- and experience-backed guidance and explain how it applies to current and forthcoming legislation and government programmes. You’ll also hear from local authorities who have taken significant steps to improve the age-friendliness of key places and spaces.
Join us to learn about the key principles for designing an accessible and inclusive public realm. This webinar is delivered by Centre for Ageing Better with speakers from Arup and from local government.
Of interest to built environment professionals, local government staff, and residents of all ages who want to advocate for change in their local area.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is inviting applications for two new Live Well in Later Life grant opportunities, designed to support the delivery of the Greater Manchester Age-friendly Strategy and help older people to be more socially connected, have a stronger voice, and participate in their communities.
Two grants are available: VCFSE Sector Support (£159,000) and Older People’s Leadership and Participation Support (£150,000). Organisations, or collaborating organisations, can apply for one or both grants, with separate applications required for each opportunity.
Applications should be submitted via The Chest using reference DN817231 (you will need to search GMCA 1655 & GMCA 1656 to find the project on the chest) by the 14th of October 2026 (by 23:59). Details on how to access the chest are attached to this email.
International Day of Older Persons: Free Music and Culture on Your Doorstep
This International Day of Older Persons on 1 October, Chetham's is encouraging older people across Greater Manchester to explore the wealth of free music, culture, and learning opportunities available right on their doorstep.
With this year's theme, ‘What's on Your Doorstep’, Chetham's is shining a spotlight on a range of free accessible and welcoming events that bring people together through music, conversation and lifelong learning.
Stoller Hall, located directly opposite Manchester Victoria Station, offers a year-round programme of performances in the heart of the city, including regular free lunchtime concerts and its popular Free Friday Night Jazz series. Starting at 5pm, the jazz evenings are particularly appealing for older audiences looking to enjoy live music without having to travel home late at night.
Talented young musicians from Chetham's School of Music also perform a series of free lunchtime concerts in Manchester Cathedral, offering audiences the chance to hear the next generation of musical talent in one of the city's most beautiful and historic settings.
Meanwhile, Chetham's Library is taking culture and conversation into communities through its programme of free talks and events at Gorton Hub, making inspiring speakers and fascinating stories accessible beyond the city centre.
Whether attending a concert, hearing emerging musicians perform, or joining a local talk, these activities offer opportunities to stay connected, explore new interests and enjoy shared experiences with others.
Play: The ReUnion
A play celebrating the cultural heritage, music, and memories of Women of African/Caribbean descent during Black History Month and International Day of Older Persons.
The ReUnion is a powerful live performance celebrating the Cultural Heritage, Music and Memories of the cast consisting of women of African/Caribbean descent who are honoured to be 'Embracing Their Next Chapter' and incorporating their lived experiences.
It explores identity, belonging, resilience and joy all whilst acknowledging the realities of racism in everyday life and all with a reflective and respectful approach.
Tickets are just 'pay-what-you-like'. All donations will go to Manchester Libraries to support future activities.
Where: Manchester Central Library Manchester
The show is vibrant and presents a combination of both a Play and a Party - blending theatre with a social gathering and celebration. It includes, dance, audience interaction and opportunities to reminisce through the music of the time and era and culminating with post-show music to be enjoyed by all.
The ReUnion is the second show for the cast and follows on from the success of their first ever show Dominoes, Dahlias + Oware which won two awards - Best Age Friendly Award together and Fantastic Family Award. Dominoes proved such a success that it was sought after resulting in performances at a variety of venues in Greater Manchester and further afield with a commission by The Story House, Theatre, Chester.
Quatuor Danel lunchtime concert with Adam McKenzie (bassoon)
Adam McKenzie joins Quatuor Danel for their long awaited first concert of the 2026-27 season. Together, they will perform:
Beethoven String Quartet No. 2 in G major,Opus 18 No. 2
Roxanna Panufnik Cantator & Amanda for Bassoon and String Quartet (2011)
Date: Thursday 1 October
Time: 1.10-1.50pm
Venue: Cosmo Rodewald Concert Hall, Martin Harris Centre, University of Manchester
Tickets: FREE – No booking required
This event is part of the Walter Carroll Lunchtime Concert series. Enjoy free music at the Martin Harris Centre on Thursday lunchtimes. For full event listings, visit: www.martinharriscentre.manchester.ac.uk/whats-on/
Club Game Friday 16th October 2026
Join us for a celebration of sport, community and active ageing.
The Better Club Games in Manchester brings together local people aged 60+ to represent their Better leisure centres in a day of friendly competition and community spirit.
Select the link below for more information and how to register. Don't delay, secure your place, places are limited.
Join two of our musicians for a relaxed, interactive music session at Hallé St Peter’s.
Following the success of our Relaxed Concerts, these Moments offer the opportunity for a more intimate experience with the Hallé musicians, who will lead a creative session of music-making. In this smaller group, participants are welcome to sit back and enjoy the music or actively join in. There will be opportunities to interact with the musicians through singing and movement. The music chosen will create a relaxing environment and all responses to the music are accepted and welcomed.
Free teas & coffees will be available ahead of the session starting, where participants will have the chance to join our musicians for a chat before the music begins.
Relaxed Moments offers carers or friends and family the opportunity to witness the impact of the music on their loved ones, for example the tap of a foot or wave of a hand. These sessions are designed to improve the wellbeing of everyone who attends!
15 minutes for arrival and teas & coffees, followed by a 1 hour session.
Tickets are £10, and carers attend free of charge. For adults attending with babies, your child is included in the ticket price.
From babies discovering their first taste of classical music, to those living with dementia and other health conditions who might experience a moment of connection, these sessions are open to all.
For more information or to be added to our mailing list, please contact Jessica Harper: jessica.harper@halle.co.uk
Please note that photographs may be taken at some of our sessions. Please contact Jessica Harper when making your booking if you do not give consent to photos, or if you have any other queries: jessica.harper@halle.co.uk
When: Thursday 15th October, 11:30AM
Where: Hallé St Peter's
Cost: Tickets are £10.00
House of Books & Friends – The Bookshop Lunch Club
Join us for a FREE day of bookish fun at House of Books & Friends!
Our Bookshop Lunch Clubs are designed for older adults and celebrate reading and its benefits in later life. You’ll take part in book-themed activities like ‘Book Voucher Bingo’ and reading group discussions led by a member of our team. At House of Books and Friends, we’re on a mission to combat loneliness and bring people together. So, whether you’re book obsessed or prefer a flick through the newspaper, come join us, and have fun making new connections whilst exploring our beautiful bookshop! A packed lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the day.
How to Book
It is free to attend our Bookshop Lunch Clubs. If you/your group would like to attend, then please email lara.bland@thegunnercookefoundation.com with the number of spaces you would like. Please also let us know if you/any of your group have any dietary requirements. Please note, spaces are limited.
Dates: Tuesday 13th October & Tuesday 8th December
Time: 10:30am – 1:30pm
Location: House of Books & Friends, 81 King Street, Manchester, M2 4PD
Walter Carroll Lunchtime Concert Series!
Date: Most Thursdays (see website for listings)
Time: 1.10-1.50pm
Venue: Martin Harris Centre, The University of Manchester, Bridgeford Street (off Oxford Road), M13 9PL
Tickets: Free – No booking required
The Walter Carroll Lunchtime Concert Series provides a wide-ranging programme to suit all tastes. Free to attend, these Thursday lunchtime concerts are an ideal opportunity to enjoy great music performed by outstanding musicians.
This season’s highlights include our world renowned string quartet Quatuor Danel, talented violinists Duo Folclore, a silent film with improvised piano accompaniment, and much more!
We hope you can join us at the Martin Harris Centre.
BECOME ONE OF OUR FIRST TEN WEAVERS Help co-create a new public walking experience along the River Irwell.
Looking for ten Manchester or Salford residents aged 55 or over who have a personal or family connection to the River Irwell, its neighbourhoods, bridges, workplaces or industries.
Through ten weekly, professionally led workshops at Aviva Studios, participants will explore reminiscence, oral history, creative writing, voice, recording and story development. No previous arts experience, public-speaking confidence or finished story is needed.
Participants can choose how visible they would like to be in the final events. Their approved recording may represent them, or they may choose to welcome audiences, introduce a story, read a short piece, join a conversation or act as a participant co-host alongside the professional performer. Public performance is always optional.
The project will provide refreshments, comfort breaks and needs-based travel or access support, including accessible taxis where required. Participants may explore their story with a grandchild or another younger person, but having grandchildren is not required.
INTERESTED? An informal conversation is all that is needed at the first stage. Contact: Nakib Narat - nakib.narat@btinternet.com, or call: 07538 599049
General advice and support
Digital Inclusion Week - 19-25 October 2026
Digital Inclusion Handbook – support to get online with confidence
Manchester City Council’s Digital Inclusion team has launched a new Digital Inclusion Handbook, bringing together the support and resources available across the city to help people get online with confidence.
The handbook is designed for residents and those supporting residents. It includes clear information on:
Finding low‑cost devices
Accessing affordable home internet
Building digital skills
Staying safe online
The handbook is available in several formats to suit different needs, including:
An online PDF
An accessible plain‑text PDF
A printed copy that residents can take home
To find out where you can pick up a printed copy, please get in touch.
Bridging Cultures: Connecting Culture Training and Cancer Care for the Chinese Community Project
The Wai Yin Society is holding training as part of the Bridging Cultures: Connecting Culture Training and Cancer Care for the Chinese Community project.
Date: Tuesday, 13 October 2026
Registration: 9:30am
Time: 10am to 1pm
Location: Sheung Lok Well-being Centre
Address: Justin Close, Manchester, M13 9UB
The training is designed for clinical andnon-clinicalprofessionals and will provide an opportunity to develop greater cultural awareness and understanding in supporting members of the Chinese community affected by cancer.
Registration: Please register via Eventbrite using the link below:
If you would like to attend remotely, please let them know in advance and they will arrange a hybrid option upon request.
They would be delighted if you could join them and would appreciate you sharing this invitation with relevant colleagues who may also be interested.
Home Fire Safety Assessments
What is a Home Fire Safety Assessment?
A Home Fire Safety Assessment (HFSA) is a free visit to your home by the Fire and Rescue Service. During the visit we will provide fire safety advice and equipment depending on risk. We’ll need to talk to you about your health, home environment and your daily activities in order to understand your fire risk and provide the best advice for you.
To find out whether you are eligible for a HFSA, click the button above and fill in the online home fire safety check.
At the end of the check you will be provided with online fire safety advice or, if you are eligible for a visit, you will be asked to submit your contact details. We will then telephone you to arrange your HFSA.
Want to find out more about HFSAs?
Learn all about HFSAs by watching the short animation below. This includes information about what an HFSA is, the benefits, who is eligible for a visit and how to make a referral.
The Council's free telephone cost of living advice line offers support with benefits and help with your rent, advice about debt and paying bills , Winter Fuel Payment Hardship Fund, food support and help to get online (support to access the internet, laptops, phones and data).
The advice line is open Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm. Call 0800 023 2692 or text 07869 022 876 visit manchester.gov.uk/coladvice
We'll be back with our next e-Bulletin in a month's time.
Please send us any news articles or event/regular group listing requests at least two weeks in advance.
