MAKING A DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE’S LIVES
News FOR YOU
AGE-FRIENDLY NEWSLETTER, ANTRIM AND NEWTOWNABBEY
Introduction
Welcome to the Summer Edition of ‘News for You’. We are thrilled to be celebrating two years since our first issue. A big thank you goes out to everyone who has contributed, supported and read along with us each season. To mark the occasion, we have packed this edition full of helpful safety tips and feel-good wellbeing advice. We have a double page dedicated to supporting those with a diagnosis of dementia. Our goal is to work in partnership to make Antrim and Newtownabbey a place where people can live full, active, valued and healthy lives.
We all know how important it is to stay connected with others, especially as we grow older. Friendships and community support make a big difference to our health and happiness. That is why we are excited to introduce a brand new initiative “Silver Summer Scheme”. It is designed to keep you active,
connected and smiling all summer long. Turn to page 11 for all the details.
The newsletter is our way of sharing helpful services, uplifting stories, and practical advice. However, we are working to get better and would love to hear what you think. Please take a few moments to fill out our quick feedback survey on page 18. Your opinion matters to us.
Finally, if you have a question about anything Age-Friendly, do not forget to visit the ‘Ask the Age-Friendly Officer’ section on our website at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/agefriendly. Pop your query into the enquiry box on the website. I look forward to hearing from you.
Kelly Doyle, Age-Friendly Officer
Meet the Team
Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Support, Northern Trust Area
Tell us about your service
Alzheimer’s Society provides support, advice and research. Across the Northern Trust area, there are services for people with a diagnosis of dementia and their carers.
How can you support those with dementia and their carers?
Alzheimer’s Society provides a range of services including:
Dementia Support Service – The dementia advisors provide advice, support, practical guidance and signposting. The services are provided at one-to-one visits, through telephone calls and online through virtual support.
Carers' Support Groups – These groups offer an informal learning environment and facilitated peer support for carers, allowing social networking in a safe environment. There are two groups in the Northern Trust for you to get involved in.
Dementia Information Programmes – These quarterly Zoom sessions are open to anyone living with dementia, supporting someone with dementia, or
simply interested in learning more about the condition.
Involvement – People with a diagnosis of dementia and their families or carers can share their personal experiences to shape the work of Alzheimer’s Society and other organisations.
Dementia Support Forum – This is an online community where anyone affected by dementia can receive help through shared experience and peer support.
Volunteer – Make a special difference by becoming an awareness-raising volunteer helping at stands and events. You could become a fundraising volunteer raising vital funds for the service.
Time for Dementia – Running in collaboration with Ulster University, families affected by dementia are paired with undergraduate healthcare students. Up to three students are paired with one family and visit three times per year to become better educated about life with dementia and the challenges that come with it.
Home Safety Checks And Dementia
Dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing, however as individuals live longer, the risk of developing age-based cognitive decline and dementia can increase.
There are multiple benefits of early diagnosis of dementia. Those affected have the right to correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, potentially delaying progression of the disease.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is working in partnership with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) Dementia Service Improvement Team. As part of our over 65s Home Safety Checks we can provide indication of possible cognitive decline. Our Home Safety Officer can provide signposting to help facilitate a possible early diagnosis of dementia.
When carrying out a FREE home safety check, the Home Safety Officer carries out an informal consultation to help identify risks, provide tailored safety advice and free equipment. We understand that some difficulties with memory are normal as we age, however, through the conversations, it may become apparent that individuals or family members have concerns around cognitive decline and dementia. These can then be addressed by providing checklists and advice for those individuals concerned.
It is hoped this will identify those at early stages of dementia and will help individuals to potentially receive
an earlier diagnosis, thus allowing for improved treatment options and families to look at advanced care planning.
Our Home Safety Officer has been trained by the NHSCT Dementia Service for this specific task. We will ensure to inform the individual or family that this is NOT a clinical assessment but an opportunity for discussion around the process of raising concerns with a GP, the provision of information, advice, reassurance and guidance around next steps.
Six Fire Safety Tips
For Those With Dementia
1. Install a smoke alarm on all levels of your property and consider installing one in your bedroom and rooms where you spend most of your time.
2. Consider installing a heat alarm in the kitchen rather than a smoke alarm.
3. Take care when cooking, especially if you have consumed alcohol. Consider swapping your gas hob for an electric hob to remove the risk posed by a naked flame.
4. Never overload sockets, use only one plug per socket.
5. Make a fire escape plan – know where the door keys are, especially at night time and keep fire escape routes clear.
6. Have a bedtime routine – close the inside doors to stop fire spreading, turn off AND unplug electrical appliances unless they are designed to be left on and put out candles and cigarettes properly.
RNID Near You Hearing Aid User Support Service
Funded by The Department of Health (SPPG) in Partnership with NHS Audiology providing support for NHS hearing aid users in
Antrim and Newtownabbey District
• Re-tube mould style hearing aids
• Clean Open-Fit style hearing aids
• Change and supply RIC wax filters
• Supply hearing aid batteries
• Advise on getting the best from your hearing aids
• Advise on equipment
• Provide information on deafness, hearing loss and tinnitus
• Signpost to other services
Hearing Checks are available by appointment only. Please call Iain on 07940 160672
NOTE: Hearing Check only suitable if you have never had a hearing test or it has been over 10 years since last test
Glengormley
Glengormley Methodist Church, 19 Glencairn Drive, BT36 5EP
1st Thursday each month 2025
3 Apr, 1 May, 5 Jun, 3 Jul, 7 Aug, 4 Sep, 2 Oct, 6 Nov, 4 Dec 10am - 12pm
07940 160672
Ballyclare
Ballyclare Town Hall, The Square, Ballyclare, BT39 9BB
Last Thursday each month 2025
24 Apr, 29 May, 26 Jun, 31 Jul, 28 Aug, 25 Sep, 30 Oct, 27 Nov, NONE Dec 10am - 12pm
Antrim
Eyre Studio, Antrim Castle Gardens, Randalstown Road, Antrim, Bt41 4HL
2nd Tuesday each month 2025
8 Apr, 13 May, 10 Jun, 8 Jul, 12 Aug, 9 Sep, 14 Oct, 11 Nov, 9 Dec 10am - 12pm
Contact: Iain Irvine - RNID Near You Co-Ordinator - NHSCT
Iain.Irvine@rnid.org.uk
rnid.org.uk
Get Connected With Connect North
Many changing circumstances can affect our health and wellbeing including work, money, housing problems or the challenges that managing a long-term health condition can bring.
Melanie is the Connect North Link Worker for Antrim and Newtownabbey and she can help you address your social needs and connect you to the appropriate services required to improve your circumstances.
Drop in to any of the locations below (no appointment required) to see how Melanie can help.
Location
Hug A Mug, Castle Mall, Antrim Every Wednesday 10am-12noon
Mossley Methodist Church, Manse Way, Newtownabbey Every Thursday 10am-12noon
Rathcoole Library
Greystone Library
Randalstown Library
Tuesday - 3 June, 1 July, 5 August, 2 September, 7 October 10.30am-12.30pm
Monday - 9 June, 21 July, 11 August, 8 September, 13 October 10.30am-12.30pm
Friday - 6 June, 4 July, 1 August, 5 September, 3 October 10.30am-12.30pm
Get Involved In Your Local Library This Summer
Ballyclare Library - School Street, Ballyclare, BT39 9BE
Tuesday Ballyclare Scribblers (Writing Group) 12.30pm–2.30pm
Tuesday Knit and Natter 2pm–4pm
Tuesday Adult Reading Group (Last Tues) 4pm–5.30pm
Friday Mindful Colouring 10am–12noon
Friday Tea and Newspapers 10am–12noon
Friday Adult Reading Group (3rd Fri) 11am–12noon
Crumlin Library - Orchard Road, Crumlin, BT29 4SD
Knit and Natter 3pm–4pm
Friday Cryptic Corner 3pm–4pm
Friday Mindful Colouring 3pm–4pm
Cloughfern Library - 2A Kings Crescent, Newtownabbey, BT37 0DH
Tuesday Tea and Newspapers 11am–1pm
Last Thursday Visually Impaired Reading Group 3.30pm–4.30pm
Glengormley Library - 40 Carnmoney Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 6HP
Tuesday Cryptic Corner 10am–12noon
Tuesday "What Just Happened?" Quiz (Last Tues) 11am–12noon
Wednesday Mindful Colouring 10am–12noon
Thursday (1st) Creative Writing Group 12.30pm–2.30pm
Thursday (Last) Adult Reading Group 11am–12noon
Friday Tea and Newspapers 10am–12noon
All Week Community Jigsaw During opening hours
Greystone Library - Greystone Road, Antrim, BT41 1JW,
(4th) Gardening Club 10.30am–11.30am
Wednesday Knit and Natter 10.30am–12noon
Thursday Tea and Newspapers 10.30am–11.30am
Saturday Mindful Colouring 11am–1pm
Randalstown Library - 34 New Street, Randalstown, BT41 3AF
Tuesday Knit and Natter 1.30pm–2.30pm
Wednesday Let’s Go Walking Group 2.15pm–3.15pm
Friday Tea and Newspapers 11am–12noon
Last Friday Gardening Club 3.30pm–4.30pm
Rathcoole Library - 2 Rosslea Way, Newtownabbey, BT37 9BZ
Tuesday Knit and Natter 10am–12noon
Wednesday Treasured Memories Café 11.30am–12.30pm
Last Wednesday Games Hub 2pm-3pm
Thursday Mindful Colouring 10am–12noon
Antrim and Newtownabbey’s Silver Summer Scheme
Relax and Reconnect During the Summer Months
Celebrate summer with our vibrant Silver Summer Scheme – a week of creative and fun activities for those aged 50 and over! Enjoy crafts entertainment, Boccia and more.
Date Activity Location Time
Mon 21 Jul Nordic Walking Rear Carpark, Mossley Mill 9.30am-10.30am
Mon 21 Jul Bag Making Workshop Antrim Library 11am-12.30pm
Mon 21 Jul Picnic and Planting* Antrim Castle Gardens 1pm-3pm
Tue 22 Jul Tea and Tidy Litter Pick Neillsbrook Fold 10am-12pm
Tue 22 Jul Next Chapter Cafe, Silver Summer Sceme* Crumlin Library 2pm-4pm
Wed 23 Jul Nordic Walking Antrim Forum Reception 9.30am-10.30am
Wed 23 Jul Boccia and Brew* Barron Hall, Glengormley 10.30am-12.30pm
Thu 24 Jul Pebble Art Rathcoole Library 11am-12.30pm
Thu 24 Jul Dig in at Hazelbank* Coronation Garden, Hazelbank 1pm-3pm
Thu 24 Jul Introduction to Nordic Walking Rear Carpark, Mossley Mill 5.30pm-6.30pm
Fri 25 Jul Next Chapter Café, Silver Summer Scheme* Ballyclare Library 11am-1pm
Looking after the grandchildren this summer? Activities marked with * are child-friendly – just let us know when booking if they’re coming along!
To book a place on any of the above activities please contact Environmental Health T. 028 9034 0160 or E. envhealth@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Turn Summer Savings Into Winter Warmth
With The Oil Stamp Saving Scheme
Summer is the perfect time to start saving for winter heating costs with Antrim and Newtownabbey’s Oil Stamp Scheme. By purchasing £5 oil stamps from participating local retailers or Council premises, households can gradually save towards purchasing their central heating oil. This simple, flexible scheme helps spread the cost over the year, making it easier to manage winter bills when expenses tend to rise. Even small, regular purchases during the warmer months can make a big difference later on. Start collecting now to stay warm and worry-free when the temperature drops!
For information on participating retailers, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/oil-stamp-retailers
Keep Cool and Cut Costs This Summer
With These Smart Energy-Saving Tips
Make the most of lighter nights – Longer days mean the ‘big light’ doesn’t need to come on until later. Keep the curtains open for as long as you can and let the natural light in.
Bring the outside in – Using a fan to cool down can increase energy costs. Instead, if it is breezy, open windows and doors so natural ventilation can flow through.
Air-dry your laundry – Tumble dryers can add up to £50 a year to your bills. Give yours a break and hang your laundry outside.
Give the boiler a break – As the weather warms up, start turning your thermostat down to a temperature you feel comfortable with, which for most people is between 18°C and 21°C. Remember to get your boiler serviced, ready for winter.
Defrost your freezer – Fridges and freezers account for 13% of average household energy bills. As your fridge/freezer ices up, it uses more energy and costs you even more to run – defrost them regularly.
Libraries NI Partners With Deafblind UK To Offer Vital Hearing And Sight Information Points
Deafblind UK has collaborated with Libraries NI to launch sight and hearing information points in libraries across Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to make support for sensory loss more accessible by providing resources on mental health, social activities, and technology assistance. Funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, the project will cover every county in Northern Ireland.
Library staff will receive training from Deafblind UK on accessibility and inclusive practices to better support those with sight and hearing loss. The goal is to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of residents by connecting them with vital services.
Mike Wycherley, Head of Charitable Services at Deafblind UK, expressed gratitude to the National Lottery Community Fund and highlighted the importance of libraries as community hubs for delivering this support.
Visit any library in Antrim and Newtownabbey from 29 April 2025 to access this free support. Look out for the information point pictured below. For more information, contact Deafblind UK T. 0800 132 320 or E. info@deafblind.org.uk
Let’s Talk Scams with Antrim and Newtownabbey Community Advice
Scams are schemes to con you out of your money. They are becoming more and more complex and difficult to recognise. They can arrive by post, phone call, text message or email, or from someone coming to your home. Scams can happen to anyone at any age. Here are some things to look out for when identifying a scam.
It might be a scam
if:
• It seems too good to be true – for example, a holiday that’s much cheaper than you might expect.
• Someone you don’t know contacts you out of the blue.
• You suspect that you’re not dealing with a real company – for example, if there’s no postal address or telephone number.
• You have been asked to transfer money.
• You have been asked to pay in an unusual way – for example, by clicking a link.
• You have been asked to give away personal information like passwords or PINs.
• You do not receive written confirmation of what's been agreed.
A common example of a scam is if you get a message that asks you to pay to get a parcel or reschedule a delivery. If you receive a message or email asking you to do this DO NOT click any links in the message. Delivery companies will not ask you to pay them through a link in an email or text to complete a delivery.
If you think that you have been scammed then there are some important steps to take:
• If someone is in immediate danger then contact the Police on 999 or for non-urgent help call 101.
• For all other scams, you should report fraud or scams directly to Action Fraud –T. 0300 123 2040
• Report scams to Consumerline –T. 0300 123 6262
If you need advice then please contact Community Advice Antrim & Newtownabbey T. 028 9590 6505
Top Tips for Picnic Perfection
Spring often signals the beginning of the caravan season. Follow these five simple tips to stay safe…
1. Stay hydrated – Pack plenty of water, juices or infused drinks to keep everyone hydrated.
2. Think outside the sandwich – Bring an alternative to sandwiches, such as a salad.
3. Keep it chilled – Bring a cooler or insulated bag to keep the contents of your picnic chilled.
4. Safe storage – Place the cooler away from direct sunlight to stop the food items overheating.
5. Wash your hands – Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water especially after handling raw meat.
Why not create your own potato salad to enjoy at a picnic this summer
Ingredients
500g/1lb 2oz new potatoes/ salad potatoes
½ lemon, juice only (alternatively use ½ tbsp white wine vinegar or cider vinegar)
2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin if possible)
1 tsp runny honey or maple syrup
2 spring onions, trimmed and finely sliced (some green tops reserved for garnish)
2 tbsp mayonnaise (any sort)
1 tsp wholegrain mustard or other mild mustard (optional)
1–2 tbsp finely chopped soft herbs, such as parsley, mint or dill (optional)
Preparation
1. Boil or steam the potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, or until tender.
2. Meanwhile, mix lemon juice, oil and honey in a serving bowl. Add the chopped spring onions.
3. Once cooked, cut the still-warm potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on size. (If you prefer peeled potatoes in your potato salad you can remove the skins at this stage.) Add to the bowl with the lemon juice mixture and stir through. Set aside to let the potatoes cool completely.
4. Once the potatoes are cold, stir in the mayonnaise, mustard and herbs (if using).
Source: www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/basic_potato_salad_97240
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve garnished with the reserved spring onion tops. Keep in the fridge until ready to serve Prep time 10-30mins | Serves 4
Chatty Benches
Chatty benches are located across the Antrim and Newtownabbey area. They provide a place for people to come together and enjoy a chat and can be found at the locations below.
Antrim Castle Gardens | Castle Mall Antrim
Hazelbank Park Newtownabbey | Lilian Bland Park Glengormley Crumlin Glen | Sixmilewater Park Ballyclare
For further information follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/connectedanln, visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk or scan the QR code.
Enjoy The Summer Vibe
With Our Arts And Culture Programme
Tea Dances
4 Jun, 23 Jul, 6 Aug // 2-4pm // Old Courthouse, Antrim
25 Jun, 30 Jul, 27 Aug // 2-4pm // Ballyclare Town Hall
£3 per session
Join Double Trouble for some great tunes from all eras. Enjoy a cup of tea and whether you dance or not, these relaxed, friendly and entertaining afternoons are sure to delight. Pay at door or book online, cost is £3.00
Summer Sunday Music
Every Sun 10 Aug-Sun 7 Sep // 2-4pm // Various Locations
This summer, immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of local bands and musicians at the Summer Sunday Music series. From 10 August – 7 September 2025 every Sunday at 2pm-4pm, these parks will host a diverse range of musical genres promising to get everyone's toes tapping.
The Tommy Burns Story
Sat 26 Jul // 7.45-10.20pm // Theatre at The Mill
The Tommy Burns Story is a play that celebrates the life of the self-proclaimed ‘supporter who got lucky’. From growing up in the Calton to playing for and managing the club he loved, Glasgow’s Celtic Football Club the play covers the three items he cherished above all else: his family, his faith, and his football!
Did you know?
A member of our Culture team can help you with bookings and enquiries.
They are available: Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm | Saturday and Sunday, 10am–5pm The customer hub will also operate on the evenings of theatre shows and events.
T. 0300 123 7788 or E. culture@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk
Bookings can also be made online: theatreatthemill.com | thecourtyardtheatre.com | theoldcourthousetheatre.com
Have Your Say On News For You, Age-Friendly Newsletter
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is committed to delivering service excellence to all our residents and your feedback is very important to us.
Do you enjoy reading the newsletter?
Yes No
Is the information presented in a way that is easy to understand?
Yes No
What parts of the newsletter do you enjoy most? (tick all that apply)
Meet the team Safety Articles Recipe Health Articles
What’s On Quiz/Wordsearch Other (please state)
How often do you read the newsletter?
Every issue Sometimes Rarely First time reader
Is the font size and layout comfortable to read?
Yes No
How do you prefer to read the newsletter?
Link by email Printed copy Other
Do you feel better informed by reading the Age-Friendly Newsletter?
Yes No
Do you have any suggestions or comments about the newsletter?
To give feedback please, complete the above survey. You can drop the completed survey into the Civic Centre reception for the attention of Kelly Doyle, Age-Friendly Officer. Alternatively, you can post any completed copies to Kelly Doyle, Mossley Mill, Carnmoney Road North, BT36 5QA.
To complete online scan the QR code or visit antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/age-friendly-newsletter
The survey will close on 31 August 2025.
Just For Fun
Summer Wordsearch
SUMMER SEASON
LOLLIPOP
SEASIDE FLOWERS
PICNIC
TRAVEL
ICECREAM
PEBBLES
AIRPORT
PARK
SUNCREAM
SALAD
STRAWBERRIES
SWIM
GARDEN
BEACH OUTSIDE
HEAT
SURFING
Summer Riddles (Answers in top right corner)
1. What building has the most stories?
2. What has a face and two hands but no arms or legs?
3. I have no eyes, ears or legs but I can move the earth.
4. What shoots up when the rain goes down?
5. What travels all the way around the
but always stays in one spot?
Useful Phone Numbers
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council Offices 0300 123 4568
Antrim and Newtownabbey Seniors’ Forums 028 9083 8848
Antrim and Newtownabbey Age-Friendly Officer 028 9034 0160
This magazine is available upon request in a range of alternative formats.
Alternative formats may include Easy Read, Braille, large print, audio formats (CD, mp3 or DAISY) or minority languages to meet the needs of those for whom English is not their first language.
If you want to learn more about this or have any requirements, please contact Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Customer Accessibility and Inclusion Officer Ellen Boyd E. ellen.boyd@antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk