Celebrating the 60 over 60

Our Volunteers and staff consistently inspire us and the people they support, we were extremely proud to have several nominees at the 60 over 60 celebratory event. Please read the full media release by Cornwall Council.

Cornwall’s inspiring 60 over 60 shine at celebratory event 

Successful 60 over 60 nominees were brought together last week to celebrate their achievement of being selected to become part of Cornwall’s inspiring 60 over 60.

Launched in April by Cornwall Council, the campaign was started to find 60 people over the age of 60 in Cornwall who inspire others in a range of ways and the event held on Monday 28 October was an opportunity for all of those successful nominees to come together to acknowledge their contributions.

The event was held in the Council Chamber at County Hall in Truro. The winners were presented with their certificate by the three judges, Cornwall Council portfolio holder for adults, Cllr Rob Rotchell, Helen Tite from iCareiMove and Nigel Clark from Age UK Cornwall. Once all nominees had received their certificates they all enjoyed a cream tea with an opportunity to meet each other and hear each other’s stories.

Those in attendance also included Vice Chairman of Cornwall Council for Cllr Mary May, Chief Executive Kate Kennally and Strategic Director for Adult Care and Support, Helen Charlesworth May. They all wanted to attend to extend their congratulations to the winners who have all contributed in some way to their community.

Cllr Rob Rotchell said: “This was a great event that was the culmination of a campaign that’s aim was to find and recognise people who have gone out of their way to prove that age is no barrier to living well."

“The success of this campaign demonstrates the contribution people over 60 make every day, volunteering, leading their community, and inspiring others through their athletic achievements. It’s so important that we celebrate the accomplishments of older people rather than focusing on the negative aspects of ageing, and now we know that there are lots of people out there doing great things we will run this campaign again next year.”

Being more active has a number of benefits, for example, reducing the risk of falls – a leading cause of injury and confidence issues in people over 65. Research also suggests that having close social connections and taking part in social activities can enhance physical and emotional wellbeing in later life. The campaign aims to inspire others to make their own positive plans to age well.

One of the judges, Helen Tite said: “Events like this are so important in helping us to recognise the fantastic achievements and the valuable contributions that our older residents make down here in Cornwall. By honouring these sixty individuals, we hope not only to inspire others to think about the small steps that they can take to live and age well, but also to challenge some of the negative stereotypes faced by those over 60 and create a more balanced view of ageing.”

Nominee Patricia Orridge said: “It was a pleasure to be involved with the event but, to be honest, I was totally surprised to be nominated, let alone be recognised as one of the finalists in Cornwall’s 60 over 60. I really don’t feel I do anything out of the ordinary with my volunteer roles. I just see them as part of a busy active life that enables me to meet many new people and take on challenges that give me opportunities to learn new skills.”

You can visit the 60 over 60 nominees page to find out more: www.cornwall.gov.uk/60over60nominees

Nominations for 2020 60 over 60 are expected to open in April next year.