Middlesex University Silver Sunday event with Age UK celebrates ageing well

Community event one of largest annual celebrations of Age UK’s national day

Middlesex University welcomed almost 1,000 people to its Hendon campus on 4 October to celebrate Silver Sunday for the fourth year running.

The event, held in partnership with Age UK Barnet and the London Borough of Barnet, in collaboration with local community groups, saw 850 older adults come together for a day of connection, creativity and learning.

Middlesex Vice-Chancellor Professor Shân Wareing welcomed Age UK Barnet Chief Executive Helen Newman and the Mayor of the London Borough of Barnet, Councillor Zahra Beg, to open the proceedings in the University’s central atrium, The Quad.

This year’s celebration included live music and performances from Barnet Hill Academy Choir and Rock Choir Ltd, as well as sea shanties performed by dementia carers, led by Helen Cassar. 

Free activities and workshops included Bollywood dancing, merengue with Anwar Azari and Dance for Joy, hosted by Dr Lucy Irving and David Westley.

Attendees were also invited to a programme of talks, including a session with memory researcher and neuroscientist Professor Catherine Loveday, as well as tips for healthy ageing from Dr Wakana Teranaka, Senior Registrar in Geriatric Medicine at Barnet Hospital. 

There was also information and advice on avoiding scams and making the most of pharmacies, alongside health checks, advice sessions, and free refreshments.

Speaking at the event, Professor Shân Wareing said:

“We’re delighted to be hosting the Silver Sunday event for the fourth year running and welcoming our local community to the Middlesex campus for a fantastic day of events to celebrate and support older people.

“Silver Sunday is a great opportunity to support wellbeing and positive ageing while also promoting the importance of social connection across our community and confidence in later life. Barnet is a great borough for older people, and we’re delighted to play a part in it!”

Chief Executive of Age UK Barnet Helen Newman said:

“Silver Sunday is a joyful reminder that older people are at the heart of our communities. It’s about coming together, trying something new, meeting people and feeling valued.”

This year’s event was sponsored by Your Choice Barnet, Medequip, Unison, Signature at Highgate and Signature at Hendon Hall, and supported by local partners and organisations.