Local Heroes...

(Because not all heroes wear capes)

Eileen Smith

Eileen plays a key role in organising many activities for the retirement block where she has lived for over 12 years, as well as for other organisations. Her passions are singing, gardening, all things digital and she is known for her spreadsheets. Eileen grew up in South East London and has never moved far away. Peggy Duffin nominated Eileen as a local hero. Peggy says: “She’s a born organiser and uses every opportunity to make the block of over 40 retirement flats where we live as lively as it can be. She brings a wonderful atmosphere to the communal lounge and brightens up the lives of residents and friends. I believe she also started the Carefree Singers who sing at care homes and give occasional concerts. The colourful garden in the summer is also thanks to Eileen - it would be a totally different place without her.”

Congratulations on the nomination Eileen! How does it feel being nominated by Peggy?

It feels rather odd as I could not consider myself a hero. I have always organised people into doing things ever since childhood but that’s more me being bossy than heroic!

Tell us more about how, as Peggy says, you make a difference to people where you live I moved into a retirement block over 12 years ago and have never looked back. I started to do work in the garden, then others joined me, then we started to organise events and team tournaments for (sit down) Boules and Royal Celebrations and the place grew more and more lively and sociable.

What’s the most rewarding aspect?

During any of our events, the noise and laughter of people enjoying themselves is worth every minute of effort in its organisation.

What does a typical day for you look like?

No two days are alike, but they are always busy and full of organisation of events at the flats. For example, producing notices and diaries for noticeboards, looking at the accounts and keeping accounts for my singing group, for whom I am Treasurer. I also organise the newsletter for my Pensioners’ Group, as well as trips and outings, plus keeping up with the jobs in the garden at the flats.

Have you been involved in anything else community-related locally?

I belong to the local U3A and ran their website for about eight years. It was a very amateurish website, but it did the job while we looked for a more professional web designer. I also taught on the U3A Advanced Computer Courses, but sadly they no longer run.

What does community mean to you?

I strongly believe that, if you live alone, communal living in your 70s and 80s (and beyond) is a great asset. At these flats you can keep yourself to yourself if you need to, but whenever you want company, someone is always around ready for a natter or to just sit with in the garden.

What’s new on the horizon?

There are lots of events to organise this year, but I’d love to have a bit more time for getting a bit fitter. I belong to

Bromley MyTime and used to attend up to six classes a week but that’s dwindled lately. However, I do hope to get back to Walking Netball soon and do a lot more walking now that I have a brand-new hip!

What do you most enjoy about living in the Bromley borough?

MyTime and U3A are both excellent ways of meeting people and learning new skills and improving old talents. For me, Bromley Town Centre with all its facilities – library, theatre, station, various community halls etc is within walking distance – although uphill on the return but buses are very frequent! And we can get to London within 15 minutes by train.

What message would you like to give people reading this?

My message is to anyone of pensionable age and above who is living in a big house alone: please consider downsizing – it’s only stuff your house is full of. Have a look at a retirement block. The communal life may not be for everyone, but ask anyone who recently moved into my block of flats and they all say that it’s the best thing they ever did. Friendships are made at an age when it is normally more difficult to get close to people, and the benefits of company and friendship are enormous and keep you feeling younger. Plus, all the different talents people have are shared and, whenever you need help, it’s there – on your doorstep. And a bonus would be your house on the market would help ease the country’s housing problem!

A special ‘Thank You’ to Time For Flowers for sponsoring the bouquets and plants for our Local Heroes.

Nominate a local hero – it could be a friend, neighbour, local business or a member of your family! Email hello@lifeinmagazines.co.uk