We launched our national Healthy Ageing Project for the Irish community in Britain in May 2024 to improve health and wellbeing and address inequalities.
In Year 1, we focused on building strong foundations, engaging with our members to understand their needs, mapping existing healthy ageing activities, developing partnerships with local and national organisations, and creating culturally relevant health information.
In Year 2, we are supporting communities to expand inclusive health initiatives, including large-scale programmes such as Walking Gaelic Football. We have a monthly newsletter running, webinars and strategy discussions to help our members with certain health issues. These activities place Irish culture at the centre while promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
The primary goal of this strategic health project is to enhance the overall health and wellbeing of our ageing community, while also informing a longer-term Healthy Ageing Strategy. Our strategy revolves around five pillars.
Health inequalities within the Irish community are often overlooked, contributing to higher rates of chronic illness, mental health challenges, and low uptake of preventive care. Our work focuses on improving access, increasing health literacy, and strengthening community resilience.
We continue to collaborate with partners to share learning, support outreach and co-deliver culturally appropriate health programmes and training.
Year 2:
Deepening member engagement by co-designing and delivering locally led healthy ageing initiatives, building on the needs identified in Year 1.
Strengthening partnerships with external organisations to move from relationship-building to active collaboration.
Developing and delivering targeted health campaigns and programmes (e.g. cultural initiatives like Walking Gaelic Football), with clear pathways to funding, training, and support.
Enhancing accessibility by expanding resources and ensuring information is widely shared, usable, and embedded within communities.
Raising wider awareness of Irish heritage and identity to influence more inclusive policy, services, and recognition of the community’s needs.
Embedding Irish culture at the heart of delivery by scaling up culturally relevant activities that support physical, mental, and social wellbeing.
Get Involved
We are keen to collaborate with statutory bodies, health organisations and community groups to:
Share data and best practices to inform service development
Support outreach and collaboration with membership organisations
Develop culturally appropriate health interventions
Co-deliver health workshops and training sessions
Contact for the South, West and East of England: Hayley Reynolds - hreynolds@irishinbritain.org
Contact for the North of England and Scotland: Lauren Caddell – health@irishinbritain.org
This project has been made possible due to funding from the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for a National Healthy Ageing Project tailored for the Irish community in Britain.