Get set to be ‘Full of Life’: Funding now open to help older residents get active this October

Richmond Council is calling on local community groups, charities and organisations to help older residents get moving, connect with others and celebrate ageing well – with small grants now available as part of this year’s Full of Life programme.

To mark the National Day of Older People (1 October) and Silver Sunday (5 October), the Council is offering funding of up to £250 for events or activities taking place throughout October that help older residents live healthy, active, and independent lives.

The Full of Life programme is a key part of the borough’s support for older people. It includes the return of the much-loved Full of Life Fair on Friday 24 October at Allianz Twickenham Stadium, which connects hundreds of local residents with services and support to boost wellbeing beyond the day itself.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee and Richmond’s Health and Wellbeing Board, said:

“The Full of Life programme is one of the highlights of our community calendar. It’s all about celebrating older age – staying active, connected, and independent – and helping residents discover the support that’s out there all year round.

“We’re proud to back local groups and organisations who go the extra mile for our older community. Through this fund, we want to support meaningful activities that make a difference – from dance sessions to cook-alongs, from guided walks to dementia-friendly social events.”

Events that can be funded

Groups can apply to host a wide range of events that support older people’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Ideas include:

• Digital skills workshops or technology support sessions
• Yoga, dance or fitness sessions
• Health and nutrition workshops
• Walks through local parks or green spaces
• Dementia-friendly arts or cultural events
• Sport-themed activities (rugby especially encouraged!)
• Inclusive events for people with sensory impairments

Applications are open until Sunday 3 August 2025 at 11.59pm. Successful applicants will be notified in late August. Activities must run between 1 and 31 October 2025, aligning with the Full of Life programme.