Orbit South residents honoured at event for UK Older People’s Day

Posted on November 5, 2013

Jan Rickwood receiving her much deserved award from fellow resident Tina Peters

On Tuesday 1 October, Orbit South celebrated the achievements and contributions that older people make to our society by handing out Orbit’s Supported Housing and Retirement Living ‘Making a Difference’ awards at a special event in Rochester, Kent. Over 100 residents from Bexley, Thanet and Chatham took part in the day which included presentations about the role of older people as well as live music and plenty of dancing! The event was held to coincide with the UN International Day of Older Persons, which also took place on the first of October.

Residents were asked to nominate neighbours and friends who make a real difference to their lives or the community where they live. Entries were received from all across Kent, Sussex and South London. Judges had a difficult time determining the winners but in the end, 12 awards were given out to special residents who really make an impact to those living around them.

Throughout the day, residents were treated to song and dance from the around the globe; although not everybody sat and just admired the action! There was belly dancing from Turkey and the North Africa region, then it was off to India for uplifting Bhangra dancing. After an enjoyable lunch, participants were transported to the Caribbean for relaxation with a steel band before concluding with the exciting rhythms of authentic African drums. Participation was actively encouraged and residents challenged negative attitudes and outdated stereotypes about older people by burning up the dance floor!

Emma Kent, Orbit South’s Supported Housing and Retirement Living Regional Manager, says; “It was a fantastic day! Not only did we celebrate those people who make a real difference to their local community, but we also had a great time learning more about the role of older people in other countries.”