Our Seniors & UTOPIA
Connecting, empowering and supporting older people across the Greater Andersonstown area since 2012.
The UTOPIA Project
The UTOPIA older people's project has been operating in Tullymore Community Centre since 2012 and now has almost 200 older people registered on the programme. Participants come from a range of backgrounds and have had very different life experiences.
UTOPIA provides the opportunity for older people over 60 years of age to take part in a wide range of activities, classes, information sessions and social events — all with people of a similar age.
Being part of the UTOPIA project provides an opportunity for the older person to not only get to grips with Information Technology, but to take part in creative activities, to be more active, learn a new skill or discover a new hobby.
We create opportunities for people to become involved in community, to socialise, to improve social networks while improving overall physical and mental health.
Our Aim
Our main focus is to reduce social isolation, improve physical and mental health and wellbeing while building overall resilience. We do this by offering a weekly programme of activities, one-off events and seasonal and thematic activities.
Members Registered
Programme Started
Our Programme of Activities
We offer a range of classes, programmes and social activities throughout the year. Participants can register for one or more activities depending on availability.
A new timetable is issued each term — some activities may change depending on available funding.
Who We Work With
- check_circleIsolated older people living alone in the community
- check_circleOlder people in sheltered residential accommodation
- check_circleOlder people caring for a spouse or partner at home
- check_circleOlder people with complex health & wellbeing needs, including depression, anxiety and bereavement
- check_circleRetired grandparents who are the sole carer(s) of their grandchildren
Where Do Our Members Come From?
An older person can contact us directly and make a self-referral, but we also take referrals from:
- person_addFamily members and friends
- person_addHealth professionals
- person_addSocial workers
- person_addMental health team
- person_addCommunity organisations
- person_addSelf-referral — contact us directly
Our Participants
All participants are encouraged to get involved in and to assist with the day to day running of the project. We create opportunities for everyone to contribute.
Volunteer
Get involved in running the project and giving back to your community.
Buddy Up Scheme
Peer-to-peer support and mentoring helps new participants settle in and make friends.
Have Your Say
We consult with participants to get their ideas about the project and how it runs.
Hospitality
Help with making tea, welcoming guests and creating a warm, friendly atmosphere.
Run Activities
Assist with and eventually lead activities you're passionate about.
Steering Group
Join the steering group to help organise the day-to-day running of the project.
A Word From Our Members
“Tullymore Community Centre has truly been a fantastic experience since I joined two years ago. The variety of activities on offer is brilliant and you are constantly challenged. I have had a new lease of life since enrolling onto the UTOPIA project and it has been an amazing experience since day one.”Mark SmithUTOPIA Member
Get In Touch
If you would like more information about the UTOPIA project or would like to make a referral, please contact our Project Manager.
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