Earlier this month we were delighted to announce the launch of the LinkAge Network.
LinkAge Network is a new look and focus for the charity which has been established in Bristol since 2007. The launch not only showcased the re-brand for the charity, but also the launch of the new membership facility.
The Network is a new facility of the charity that has been launched to:
Connect individuals, groups and organisations across the West of England
Share knowledge, resources and skills
Strengthen community provision for people aged 55+
Over 30 professionals from across the third sector attended the Network launch on Wednesday 14th February at Triodos Bank. The event aimed to give those who attended the opportunity to find out more about the Network and how it could support their organisations work.
The event was opened by The Right Honourable, The Lord Mayor of Bristol, Cllr Lesley Alexander, who launched the launch and also spoke about the work that is taking place across Bristol to support older people living in isolation.
The Chair of the LinkAge Network, Trevor Jones then introduced the new focus for the organisation, followed by Chief Executive Officer Jo Stokes, who introduced the new membership facility of the charity.
Attendees also heard from Emily Georghiou Senior Programme Manager from the Centre of Ageing Better, who spoke about ‘Collaborative communities: how can we create the conditions for ageing better.’
Those attending the event were invited to take part in a variety of workshops that had themes and content that were relevant to the third sector. Workshops included ‘Communicating and marketing to your target audiences’ led by Professor Tim Hughes, Professor in Applied Marketing from University of the West of England, ‘Exploring your community and networks’ led by Kate Constance, Fundraising Manager at LinkAge Network and ‘Promoting effective collaboration and exploring what makes us tick’ led by Gabi Wheeler, Director at Shine Inside Out.
Feedback from professionals who attended on the day was extremely positive with one attendee saying, “It was a great opportunity to network, meet new people, and hear about new ideas.”
On reflection of the launch event Jo Stokes, Chief Executive Officer of the LinkAge Network said,
The charity has entered a new era of its life and I was heartened that it was welcomed with such enthusiasm at our launch event. We look forward to working with more Bristol residents and their community groups to strengthen provision across the area.”
For those interested in joining the Network, membership is open to:
- Groups and organisations who work to strengthen community provision for people aged 55+, and
- Individuals who are personally interested in community provision for peopled aged 55+
Organisations and individuals may come from anywhere in the West of England.
To find out more please visit the ‘Join the Network’ section of our website or call 0117 353 3042.