Issue 188 - Belfast BT6 • BT7 • BT8
Positive Ageing Month in Belfast
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is shining a spotlight on the importance of social connection and encouraging people to take part in age-friendly events as part of Positive Ageing Month this October.
The benefits of the decade long Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) were discussed by a BRCD Council Panel at Belfast City Hall.
Belfast Region reaping rewards from City Deal
Significant rewards are already being reaped from the Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD) decade-long programme of investment – that was the consensus from today’s meeting of the BRCD Council Panel at Belfast City Hall. The annual report was the central focus of the meeting, highlighting several key Belfast Region City Deal milestones being reached: Studio Ulster has opened in Belfast, one of the most advanced hubs in the world for real-time
filmmaking, animation, in-camera VFX and immersive media. Developed by Ulster University in partnership with Belfast Harbour and supported by Northern Ireland Screen, Studio Ulster is not only transforming film and TV production workflows,
it’s also shaping the next generation of talent and driving sustainable economic growth. The UK Digital Twin Centre has opened in Belfast, delivered by Digital Catapult and funded by BRCD and Innovate UK, helping businesses in
high growth areas like advanced manufacturing to solve complex operational challenges with cutting-edge technology, expert support, and test environments.
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Throughout the month, Age Friendly Coordinators in all 11 local council are hosting activities alongside community organisations designed to bring people together, help reduce isolation and celebrate the valuable contribution older people make to our communities. To support positive ageing, tackle health inequalities and build intergenerational links, the PHA funds AgeFriendly Coordinators in all council areas across Northern Ireland. These coordinators, working alongside local partners, are delivering a diverse
programme of events and information sessions throughout October to encourage older people to stay active, engaged and connected. Positive Ageing Month is also about looking ahead – ensuring that communities across Northern Ireland are places where people can thrive as they grow older. To find out what’s happening in your area, visit your local council website or follow their social media channels for details of Positive Ageing Month events near you. www.belfastcity.gov. uk/positiveageingmonth