Our Derbyshire 50+ Forums are friendly, welcoming groups that bring people aged 50 and over together to socialise, share experiences, learn new things and make a positive difference in their local communities.

Whether you're looking to meet new people, enjoy interesting activities, hear from guest speakers or help shape local services, there's a place for you at your local forum.

Why join a 50+ Forum? Joining a forum is a great way to: meet new people and make lasting friendships enjoy regular social activities and friendly conversation hear from guest speakers on a wide range of topics find out about local services, support and opportunities share your views on issues that matter to you learn new skills and discover new interests take part in trips, events and community projects

More than just meetings Our forums are run by local people for local people and every forum is unique. Across Derbyshire, members enjoy: social gatherings and community events guest speakers and informative presentations local history, heritage and community projects health and wellbeing sessions day trips and outings craft activities and demonstrations opportunities to work with local organisations and service providers

Many forums have successfully campaigned for improvements to local services and facilities, helping to ensure that the voices of older residents are heard. A friendly welcome awaits You don't need any experience, special skills or previous involvement in community groups. Simply come along and see what it's all about. Come on your own or with a friend Join in as much or as little as you like Meet people from your local area Enjoy a welcoming and supportive atmosphere Have your voice heard on issues that matter to you

Wilmot Street Community Centre, 16 Wilmot St, Heanor DE75 7EF

The forum serves people living in Heanor and the surrounding communities, including Marlpool, Langley, Langley Mill, Loscoe, Aldercar, Smalley, Shipley and Horsley Woodhouse.

The Heanor and District 50+ Forum is for people aged 50 and over who want to stay connected, informed and involved in their local community.

The forum provides an opportunity to:

• stay informed about local issues, services and developments
• share your views on matters affecting older people
• meet new people and make social connections
• hear from a range of guest speakers and organisations
• help influence local decision-making
• learn about opportunities, activities and support available in the area
• work together to improve services and facilities for older residents

The forum has successfully represented older people's views and supported a range of community improvements, including:

• helping to secure an outdoor exercise area for older people at Wilmot Street Welfare Centre, which continues to be well used by local residents
• supporting the development of Patient Participation Groups at local GP surgeries, ensuring older people's voices are represented in discussions about healthcare service
• campaigning for improved accessibility at Langley Mill railway station, including disabled access to the southbound platform
• running computer buddying sessions at Heanor Library to help people build confidence using technology
   

Bringing generations together

One of the forum's aims is to encourage connections between older and younger people in the community.

Over the years, the forum has worked closely with local schools and youth groups, including:

• events involving local infant and secondary schools
• performances by the Mundy School choir at forum meetings
• presentations from young people about community projects, including a successful school community garden
• joint activities with Blend Youth Project, bringing different generations together through fun and inclusive events

Meetings and events

Our meetings are held at Wilmot Street Welfare Centre in Heanor.