The Welsh Government has announced £1.1m to support Age Friendly Officers across Wales.
The announcement reinforces the government’s commitment to celebrate and support older people’s vital contributions to communities.
It comes as International Day of Older People’s Day is marked today, with this year’s theme being ‘Building belonging: Celebrating the power of our social connections’.
The funding will be split equally between local authorities in 2026-27, continuing the support which has been in place since 2022.
Age Friendly Officers are vital in empowering older people to take active roles in their communities whilst building strong connections with third sector organisations. This has led to numerous local activities designed with and for older people.
Older people have a crucial role in creating social connections with 38% of those over 65 volunteering – the highest figure of any age group.
Wales continues to lead in tackling the issue of ageism and developing innovative policy with older people. The nation established the world’s first Older People’s Commissioner in 2008.
Welsh Government Minister with responsibility for older people, Dawn Bowden, said: “Today is all about celebrating the crucial role that older people play in creating social connections with others; from a nod and a smile as we pass a stranger to nurturing and lasting relationships that develop through shared values and interests.
“With so many people celebrating Older People’s Day in Wales, and across the world, I want to send a strong message that older people’s contributions need to be recognised and celebrated – everyone has value regardless of age or circumstance.
“I am pleased to announce £1.1m funding for Age Friendly Officers to continue to provide important support for older people in their communities.”
