Welcome to Blackburn with Darwen Older People's Forum

Welcome to the Blackburn with Darwen Older People's Forum!

The Forum, which is funded by the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, was established to help people over the age of 50 in Blackburn with Darwen to enjoy an active and fulfilling life, by providing access to social opportunities, activities and education.

The Forum is open to everyone of any ethnic and cultural background.  It is a democratically constituted group and aims to fully involve members in the decision-making process.

History of the Forum

The Forum was established in early 2003 and, since that date, those involved have indicated the need for the Forum to provide a sounding board and support for local older people in their efforts to find solutions to their issues, such as maximising income, accessing flexible transport and social/leisure activities.

The Forum also provides good quality information on subjects such as health, social care and personal safety through speakers at the Forum's monthly meetings.

Why join?

• The Forum is run by older people and assists in empowering members to have an effective voice within the community.
• You will receive invites to our FREE social events and activities.
• You will receive a FREE newsletter full of useful news, information and fun stuff!
• We hold monthly meetings with guest speakers, giving you a chance to tell the decision-makers what YOU want.
• Find out about the latest news and changes taking place inside and outside the Borough that affect older people.
• Become an active member and learn new skills, gain experience and build personal confidence.

Who can join?

The Forum is open to everyone in Blackburn with Darwen and environs who is fifty years old or over, of any ethnic, religious or cultural background.

The Forum fully supports anyone with a disability or sensory impairment, and seeks to fully include them in our activities, by ensuring our venues are accessible and that all equipment is in place to support and assist you.

"Let us not look back in anger or foward in despair, but around us in awareness."

"They say time changes things but you actually have to change them yourself."

"Between thought and expression there lies a lifetime."