As Northern Ireland’s population ages, two Bangor families are helping to address one of the biggest challenges facing older people today: loneliness.
To mark Loneliness Awareness Week (15-21 June 2026), Abbeyfield & Wesley Housing Association, which has 150 very sheltered units in Northern Ireland, is celebrating the volunteers who help create connection and community across NI. This year’s theme, ‘Giving Loneliness a Voice’, encourages people to speak openly about loneliness and build stronger, more connected communities.
The issue is becoming increasingly important. Recent projections from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency suggest the number of people aged 65 and over will increase by almost 45 per cent over the next 25 years, while the number of people aged 85 and over is expected to more than double. As society ages, organisations such as Abbeyfield & Wesley believe creating opportunities for meaningful connection will become more important than ever.
The not-for-profit housing association provides family-style accommodation for older people, combining independent living with companionship, home-cooked meals and community links designed to reduce isolation and support wellbeing.
At its Ballyholme house in Bangor, three generations of one family have experienced first-hand the power of community.
Fourteen-year-old Meredith volunteers at the house as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. Her grandmother, Ellen “Nell” Hire, 89, moved into the Ballyholme home following the death of her husband last year, while Meredith’s mother Hilary also volunteers.
Hilary said: “What started as supporting Meredith with her volunteering has become something we both genuinely look forward to every week. The residents have so many wonderful stories to share and it’s lovely to see the enjoyment the activities bring.”
Meredith added: “I love spending time with the residents. The music and quizzes are always popular and it’s nice seeing everyone joining in and having fun together.”
Nell said: “Moving into Abbeyfield & Wesley has given me companionship and friendship when I needed it most. There’s always someone to talk to and plenty going on if you want to join in.”
A short walk away at Abbeyfield & Wesley’s Ward Avenue house, another Bangor family is making a similar difference.
Fifteen-year-old Cara Chapple began volunteering to gain valuable experience and make a difference in the community. Her mother Emily joined her and Cara’s Nana, Pru Bates, also signed up as a willing volunteer, ready to help out when needed. Pru loves listening to, and sharing in, all the residents’ stories.
Emily Chapple said: “Volunteering has been such a positive experience for our family. The residents are great company and we’ve built some lovely friendships.”
Cara added: “I love planning the ac
Patrick Thompson, Chief Executive of Abbeyfield & Wesley Housing Association, said: “Loneliness can affect anyone, but older people can be particularly vulnerable following bereavement, retirement or health challenges.
“As Northern Ireland’s population ages, creating opportunities for meaningful connection will become increasingly important. Our volunteers play a vital role in helping residents feel valued, included and part of a community. It’s what living with Abbeyfield & Wesley is all about.
“The volunteers we see in Ballyholme and Ward Avenue demonstrate the power of community and the positive impact that intergenerational relationships can have on wellbeing.”
As Abbeyfield celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, the Association hopes that Loneliness Awareness Week will encourage more people to think about the importance of good housing and social connections in later life.
