Keeping busy and young at heart at James Street

The weekly activities, which include bingo, coffee mornings and games evenings, are organised by two residents at the scheme, Andrew and Barbara. Andrew wanted to do something to reignite the James Street social group which had been dormant since the Covid lockdown. He said: “Getting together with other people for a chat and a laugh is really important for your mental health, but if you live alone or aren’t very mobile it can be harder to get out and socialise. That’s why we wanted to restart the activities at James Street as I’m a firm believer that keeping active helps to keep you young at heart!

“Thanks to help from the council’s Activity Coordinators we have re-established the social group and now run weekly groups which are proving really popular. We also threw a party to mark the King’s Coronation in May which was a huge success. It’s just great seeing people having fun and enjoying themselves again at James Street. Everyone over age 55 is welcome to join in the fun!”

The programme of regular activities, which take place in the community room of block 42-164 James Street, are:

• Tuesdays – Games evening 7-9pm
• Fridays – Coffee afternoon 2-3.30pm
• Fridays – Bingo evening

James Street is just one of the many supported housing schemes across the city where tenants can enjoy an active social calendar. Fun activities including arts and crafts, games, keep fit, computer and lunch clubs take place in lots of supported schemes each week for older residents who would like to join in.

To find out what’s on offer in or near your scheme, or if you would like to establish your own social group please contact our Activity Coordinators. We are always looking for volunteers to help run these activities so if you have spare time and would like to lend a hand please get in touch.

If you’re a member of an active social group, please send us photos from your scheme and we will try to include them in a future Tenants’ Link!