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We celebrated International Day of Older People (IDOP) at Marlborough Court in Bideford, bringing together customers, local organisations and members of the community for an afternoon of tea, coffee, cake and conversation.

For this year's theme, what's on your doorstep?, we focused on the importance of local services, opportunities and support networks that help people stay connected to their communities and live independently. We know that getting beyond the front door isn't always easy for everyone, which made the opportunity to bring local organisations and support services together all the more important.

I think it's amazing having all these people here to talk with us and to learn what's available in our community. Thank you to everyone involved.

- Westward customer 

Delivered in partnership with TTVS, we brought together a range of local organisations including 361 Energy CIC, Soul Sense CIC, The Filo Project, Man Down, Learn Devon, Age UK, Torridge Volunteer Cars, The Torridgeside, Talking Newspaper for the Blind and Talkworks to share information, answer questions and raise awareness of the support available locally.

More than 50 people joined us within the first hour, creating a lively atmosphere with conversations taking place throughout the afternoon. The social side of the event was just as important as the information being shared, with people enjoying the chance to catch up, make new connections and spend time together over refreshments.

Some attendees even joked that after speaking with so many people, they needed a few moments of peace and quiet with their tea and coffee in the next room. It was wonderful to see so many conversations happening and new connections being made throughout the day.

This is the first time we've celebrated this international day with an event, and it's been great to see people communicating with each other and learning what's available to them.

- Westward colleague

We know that feeling connected to your community can make a real difference. Having access to information, local services and opportunities to meet others can help people maintain their independence and wellbeing.

This international event demonstrated the value of bringing people together, helping customers discover local support, build new connections and learn more about the services available in their community. The day highlighted just how much knowledge, support and friendship can be found right on our doorstep.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and to all the organisations that supported the event and helped make the day such a memorable success.