A Story of Loneliness was the first event organised by a local Ageing Better programme to depict the learning and experiences of those AB areas that have developed mental health solutions to support the most lonely and isolated older people. Middlesbrough has led the way on this crucial topic, based on their experience of designing solutions to fill the gap left by existing provisions.
The main event was a full day conference for policy makers and delivery organisations in and around the Teesside area of North Yorkshire. Registered attendees, over 100, heard from local Middlesbrough Ageing Better representatives as well as Sophie Corlett, Director of External Relations at Mind charity.
Two rounds of workshops hosted by four Ageing Better programmes expanded on local practices and invited in depth conversations on the topic. Keynote speaker, Professor Christina Victor of Brunel University, elaborated on the question ‘Does Loneliness Matter?’ before the conference came to a close with final remarks delivered by our conference host for the day, Tracey Robbins from the Eden Project Communities.
A pre-conference social event took place at the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art the evening before, where guests experienced ‘PechaKucha’ style presentations. Three invited speakers had 20 slides and 20s per slide to present on a relevant topic of their choice. A very energetic and enjoyable format, that brought out very interesting facts about our speakers and their journeys to where they are today.
The OD&V team worked closely with the local client committee, Middlesbrough Town Hall and PechaKucha Sheffield to plan and deliver the conference and satellite event.