The future of our Active and Connected 65+ project – which supports older people in Newham through free exercise, social activities and creative sessions – has been assured for a further two years thanks to new funding!

The project, which has been running for 20 years, was facing financial pressure as our previous funding was due to run out. Now the service, which helps hundreds of older Newham residents every year, will continue for at least another two years thanks to a £72,000 grant from City Bridge Trust, the City of London Corporation’s charity funder.

Bonny Downs Community Association’s Director of Fundraising Jess Craig said:

“Our members tell us the sessions help them improve their physical health and stay fit, but more than that, it enables them to contribute to the community and feel part of the life of their neighbourhood.

“Without the extra funding there was a real risk to this project’s future, leaving a lot of older people with nothing to do, so it will make a big difference to people’s lives.”

City Bridge Trust Chairman Giles Shilson said:

“Getting out, getting active and meeting people has life-changing benefits for older people and is something many will have missed greatly during the Covid pandemic.

“We’re delighted our funding means this service, which has helped many hundreds of east Londoners over the last 20 years, can continue to help improve the health and quality of life of older people.”

BDCA activities funded through the City Bridge Trust grant include weekly exercise classes, social activities such as ‘arts and darts’ sessions, and one-to-one telephone support.

The City of London Corporation’s charity funder, City Bridge Trust, is London’s biggest independent grant giver, making grants of over £25 million a year to tackle disadvantage across the capital.

We’re thrilled that older people in Newham will be able to stay active and connected thanks to the generosity of City Bridge Trust, and any local residents interested in joining us can check out our timetable of activities on our website!