HART District Council has had three short films created and has also funded local events to celebrate UK Older People’s Day on Saturday.  

Every year October 1 is used to mark a national and international celebration of the achievements and contributions that older people make to our society. Almost one in five Hart residents are aged 65 and over, and the three short films have set out to show age is just a number.

The film project is a collaboration between Hart District Council and local film-maker John Sutton from Clearwater Photography, with support from Hart Volunteer Centre.

Anne Crampton, portfolio holder for community wellbeing at Hart District Council, said: “The films give a flavour of some of the ways older residents are giving their time and sharing their knowledge and skills with others.

“In doing so they’re also keeping active, staying connected and continuing to learn, which is helping them to stay happy and well.”  

The films features three themes, ‘Connect’, ‘Keep learning’, and ‘Be active’, which are part of the ‘Five Ways to Well-being’, a set of simple evidence-based actions individuals can take to promote their wellbeing.

Liz Glenn, health and policy officer at Hart District Council, said: “We’re really grateful to everyone who contributed to creating these films.

“We hope they will encourage people to think about the wealth of skills and experiences older people bring to our society, and inspire people of all ages to try something new.”

As well as their partnership in creating the films, the district council is supporting a range of local community events including a celebratory lunch in Crondall, a tea party in Odiham and a creative workshop and information day in Yateley.

To watch the films celebrating and highlighting the importance of elder residents in the community, visit www.hart.gov.uk/full-of-life.

For more information about care, support and activities to help people stay independent, safe and well go to www.hart.gov.uk/health-wellbeing or contact Age Concern Hampshire’s Older People’s Area Link at 0800 328 7154.