LINK – Listening, Inclusion, Networking and Knowledge is a new member-led engagement and outreach group being established by the Elders Council of Newcastle.

LINK will provide opportunities for people aged 50+ to get involved in their community, develop new skills, build confidence and help ensure that more voices are heard across Newcastle.

What will LINK members do?

Volunteers will have opportunities to:

• Visit community groups and organisations across Newcastle.
• Meet and talk to people aged 50+ and listen to their experiences, ideas and concerns.
• Help us reach people and communities whose voices are currently underrepresented.
• Help encourage new people to become involved with the Elders Council.
• Build relationships with community groups, partners and local networks.
• Share community knowledge and emerging issues with the Elders Council.
• Support Elders Council projects, events and activities.
• Develop a wider pool of volunteers and community contacts.
• Support specific projects, for example digital inclusion, energy support and Age Friendly City activities.
• Take part in training and develop skills in community engagement, communication, volunteering and outreach.

The group is supported by the Elders Council's Executive Officer but is member-led, giving volunteers the opportunity to shape its activities and priorities.

Who can take part?

LINK is open to people aged 50+ who live or work in Newcastle. Membership of the Elders Council is free and anyone wishing to take part who is not already a member will be supported to join.

About the Elders Council

The Elders Council of Newcastle is a membership organisation for people aged 50+ in Newcastle. We work to connect, activate and influence older people, ensuring their voices are heard and helping to create an Age Proud Newcastle where everyone can age well.

Skills

Who are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in hearing from people aged 50+ who:

• Enjoy meeting and talking to people.
• Have good knowledge of their local community or networks.
• Are interested in making sure different voices are heard.
• Would like to develop their skills and confidence.
• Want to contribute to creating an Age Proud Newcastle.

No previous volunteering or outreach experience is required. We will provide support, guidance and appropriate training.

For an informal chat contact Victoria or Gillian on Phone: 0191 2082701 or Email: info@elderscouncil.org.uk