Welcome to The Ageing Well Programme
Ageing Well in Bath & North East Somerset
We want Bath & North East Somerset to be a place where everyone can age well, with the support, connection, services and environments that help people live well as they get older.
The Ageing Well Programme brings together organisations, communities and older people to help make that happen. Guided by the World Health Organisation’s Age-Friendly Framework, the programme focuses on the things that shape later life, from transport and housing to social connection, health and access to information.
State of Ageing in B&NES 2026
The State of Ageing in B&NES report brings together local data and insight from more than 1,300 older residents to build a clearer picture of what ageing looks like across Bath and North East Somerset today.
It highlights the strengths of our area, but also the barriers many older people face including transport, housing, health access, loneliness, digital exclusion and the lack of age-specific local data.
Most importantly, it is not just a report to be read and set aside. It is a call to action.
The B&NES State of Ageing Report 2026
Bath & North East Somerset is changing. Find out what we know about older people and the recommendations that we are making, so that older people can live well.
Executive Summary: B&NES State of Ageing Report 2026
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Make a pledge today
We’re inviting organisations and partners across B&NES to make a practical pledge in response to the State of Ageing report. Whether it builds on existing work or sets out something new, your pledge can help make B&NES a better place to grow older.
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State of Ageing Report 2026 recomendations
The State of Ageing recommendations highlight where action is most needed to improve later life in B&NES. Based on local data and the views of more than 1,300 older residents, they offer a clear starting point for partners, services and decision-makers.
About the Ageing Well Programme
The Ageing Well Programme is working to make Bath & North East Somerset a more inclusive, supportive and accessible place to grow older.
Our work is shaped by the World Health Organisation’s Age-Friendly Framework, which looks at the key areas that influence how well people can age in their communities.
Fuelled by funding from St John’s Foundation and Age UK B&NES, this transformative initiative is driving change in the Bath and North East Somerset region to improve the lives of older people.
Why this matters?
Bath & North East Somerset has a significant and growing older population, but people’s experiences of later life are far from all the same.
Some older people are well connected, active and thriving. Others are facing isolation, poor access to services, unsuitable housing, financial pressure, or difficulties getting around. The State of Ageing report helps shine a light on those experiences and provides a stronger foundation for action.
The Age-Friendly Framework
The World Health Organisation’s Age-Friendly Framework highlights eight areas that influence how well people can age in their communities:
1. Outside Spaces
Designing public spaces that are safe and accessible for all.
2. Transport
Providing transportation options that cater specifically to the needs of older adults.
3. Housing
Ensuring diverse housing options that accommodate the changing needs of ageing.
4. Social Participation
Encouraging active involvement in social and community events.
5. Respect and Social Inclusion
Encouraging active involvement in social and community events.
6. Civic Participation and Employment
Opening avenues for continued engagement in work and civic life.
7. Communication and Information
Ensuring easy access to information in various formats.
8. Community Support and Health Services
Tailoring health and support services to suit older adults.
Want to find out more about Ageing Well?
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