The New Art Project Helping to Fight Loneliness in Bolton

A new community art project funded through Bolton’s Fund, is helping to fight loneliness for vulnerable older people in Bolton.

The Art of Belonging, co-ordinated in partnership by Age UK Bolton and Bolton Contemporary CIC, will see Bolton-based professional artists working with isolated older people to teach them accessible arts and crafts whilst providing companionship.

Whilst loneliness affects older people all year round, the winter period can be especially hard, with colder weather and shorter days making it harder for many to get out and see friends and family.

Lynsey, Ageing Well Co-ordinator at Age UK Bolton, said:  "Loneliness is one of the biggest challenges facing older people. Those with health issues, limited mobility or no nearby family are our priority. Through this project, we want to reach them during the toughest winter months and help them reconnect — first at home, then in community settings and through our Ageing Well offer that runs across Bolton."

The project will be a welcome addition to Age UK Bolton's Ageing Well programme, which already provides activities and social events through its Ageing Well Centre in Farnworth and across the wider community. 

The project will be delivered by 'Art Befrienders', who will help to deliver art workshops in people's homes with the guidance of the local artists.

As the programme progresses, it will extend to the wider Bolton community, providing brand new workshops such as floristry, pottery and painting. 

Rebecca Harrington, Director of Bolton Contemporary CIC, said: "I'm passionate about making the arts accessible to all, and that includes our older people here in Bolton, who are some of the most vulnerable."

Rebecca added: "This project will reach a part of Bolton's community who really need social connection, which our artists and volunteers will bring to their homes through low pressure arts and crafts activities, bringing them contact with others and boosting their self-confidence."

The Art of Belonging will run throughout 2026, finishing with a celebration event later in the year showcasing the artwork created as part the project.

Age UK Bolton are looking for volunteers to join the project as 'Art Befrienders' who will help to deliver art activities in people's homes. If you'd like to get involved, please get in touch at volunteering@ageukbolton.org.uk.

The Ageing Well Centre runs a variety of activities, including physical activities, social events, arts and crafts and music classes. To find out more about activities at the Ageing Well Centre and book a place, please call 01204 701525.

As a local independent charity, Age UK Bolton relies on donations to deliver services like Ageing Well. Donate today to help change how we age in Bolton.

To donate £5, text AGEWELL to 70085.

Test costs £5 plus one standard network rate message, and you'll be opting into hearing more from Age UK Bolton. If you would like to donate but don't wish to hear more, text AGEWELLNOINFO.