WRVS present at the 8th International Conference at the Global Aging Network in London

WRVS chief executive Lynne Berry and WRVS Heritage Plus project manager Kirsty Henshall represent WRVS

[UKPRwire, Wed Sep 30 2009] WRVS chief executive Lynne Berry and WRVS Heritage Plus project manager, Kirsty Henshall gave a presentation at the 8th International Conference of the Global Aging Network in London on 22 July.

Entitled ‘Celebrating our lives and communities’, their talk formed part of a session on engagement and activity programming. They focused on our Sussex-based Heritage Plus project which celebrates and records older people’s individual and community histories.

The project values, inspires and informs old and young from different cultures by sharing memories, cultures, life experiences and traditions using a variety of methods to engage communities in heritage activities.

The project helps to build the confidence and self-esteem of both participants and volunteers and increases opportunities for social interaction across generations and cultures which in turn reduces social isolation. It promotes positive ageing by improving the image of older people within their communities.

You can find out more about our Heritage Plus project by clicking on the following links.

* This website - WRVS Heritage Plus project
* The project website - www.heritageplus.org.uk
* The Global Ageing Network conference website - www.iahsa.net/LONDON/internalpage.aspx?id=6662

You can find out more about the conference and download a copy of Lynne and Kirsty’s presentation at www.iahsa.net/london.

The Global Ageing Network is an international forum organised by IAHSA - the International Association of Homes and Services for the Aging – for the exchange of research, services, products and training. IAHSA was founded in 1994 to create a platform for policymakers, researchers, business and ageing services providers to share knowledge and best practice in enhancing the quality of care for older people around the world.

Their mission is ‘Connecting and supporting care and service providers worldwide to enhance the quality of life for the ageing.’

The international conference takes place every two years and this year came to London for Leadership Beyond Borders on 20-22 July 2009, visit the conference website www.iahsa.net/london

WRVS is one of Britain's leading volunteering charities, supporting older people in your communities to live healthier and happier lives at home, in hospitals and in emergency situations.

If you are a member of the press and have a media enquiry or would like to speak with a WRVS representative, please contact communications officers Jo White on 07714 898574 or Julia Cook on 07834 652390. For all other enquiries please contact us.