Community Snapshot: LinkAge's Over 50s Are the Life of the Party
This October, LinkAge Plus hosted its annual tea party at Tarling East Community Centre to celebrate Older Person’s Week. The event attracted over 70 guests from Tarling and nearby estates, creating a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere.
Attendees enjoyed a delicious hot lunch, followed by tea and a variety of cakes, and the highlight of the day was some live music, which got everyone up on their feet and dancing. Helen, a Support Worker at LinkAge shares:
At LinkAge, we aim to reduce isolation and loneliness for older people living in Shadwell, Wapping, Stepney, and Whitechapel. Our strong partnership with THCH helps us run weekly sessions and our annual parties at Tarling East.
LinkAge's programme is tailored for people aged 50 and over, helping neighbours connect through shared activities and hobbies. In Tower Hamlets, only 6% of residents are over 65, making older citizens some of the loneliest in London. This highlights the vital role organisations like LinkAge play in supporting the well-being of older people in our community.
Activities such as line dancing and ballet have helped the group grow, while staff and volunteers provide valuable advice and personal support. The large turnout for the tea party highlights the important impact LinkAge has within the community. THCH's Community Development Officer, Shema, remarks:
The tea party is always enjoyable. We are proud to support LinkAge, which has such a positive influence in our neighbourhood by bringing older people together. It’s a pleasure to collaborate with Helen and her team.
Tarling East Centre is one of ten community hubs managed by THCH, offering a variety of programmes each week. To learn more, visit our communities page.