The event saw 850 older adults come together for a day focused on connection, creativity, and learning. Middlesex Vice-Chancellor Professor Shân Wareing, Age UK Barnet Chief Executive Helen Newman, and the Mayor of the London Borough of Barnet, Councillor Zahra Beg, officially opened the proceedings in the University's central atrium, known as The Quad.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of live music and performances, including contributions from Barnet Hill Academy Choir and Rock Choir Ltd, as well as sea shanties led by Helen Cassar. The day also featured free activities and workshops such as Bollywood dancing and merengue, hosted by Anwar Azari, Dr Lucy Irving, and David Westley.
A programme of talks offered insights into healthy ageing, with sessions led by memory researcher and neuroscientist Professor Catherine Loveday, and Dr Wakana Teranaka, Senior Registrar in Geriatric Medicine at Barnet Hospital. Information on avoiding scams and maximising pharmacy services was also available, alongside health checks and free refreshments.
“"We’re delighted to be hosting the Silver Sunday event for the fourth year running and welcoming our local community to the Middlesex campus for a fantastic day of events to celebrate and support older people. Silver Sunday is a great opportunity to support wellbeing and positive ageing while also promoting the importance of social connection across our community and confidence in later life. Barnet is a great borough for older people, and we’re delighted to play a part in it!"
“"Silver Sunday is a joyful reminder that older people are at the heart of our communities. It’s about coming together, trying something new, meeting people and feeling valued."
The event was sponsored by Your Choice Barnet, Medequip, Unison, Signature at Highgate and Signature at Hendon Hall, with support from various local partners and organisations. The pictured group includes Mayor of the London Borough of Barnet, Councillor Zahra Begg; Councillor Gill Sargeant; Middlesex Vice-Chancellor Professor Shân Wareing; Middlesex Pro Vice Chancellor, Partnerships, Portfolio, Impact and Innovation, Dr Sinead Mehigan; and Barnet Asian Women’s Association's Nila Patel.
