INTRODUCTION / BACKGROUND
The first generation of Filipino migrants to the United Kingdom arrived during the late 1960s and peaked in the 1970s. They were mostly economic migrants and were generally employed in the service industries namely, catering and hospitality, healthcare and domestic services. Their ages ranged from 18 – 30 years. This first generation are now senior citizens and most of them reside in London and the South East.
FWA-UK undertook a survey in 2015 of its members (& members of the London community )aged 60 years and over to find out the support that the Association could provide to them in their advancing years, particularly to those who live alone.
The following needs were identified.
- Leisure & Relaxing Facilities
- Support for Elderly living alone
- Social & Cultural Support
- An accessible way to find Information
- Affordable Housing suitable for Older People
This project is initiated for the following purposes:
- To improve the physical and mental well-being of senior citizens through activities that are suited to their interests and needs;
- To increase social communication opportunities of senior citizens with peers and other people, especially those who live alone.
GOAL
The provision of a number of regular and varied activities and social gatherings that engage the interest and participation of senior citizens.
The measures of success will be the following:
- The comparison of number who participated in the activities;
- Camaraderie that developed between senior citizens and younger members of the Association and elderly members of the community ;
- Improved communication between all members.
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE PROJECT?
The senior citizen members of FWA-UK and elderly members of the community will be the main beneficiaries of this project.
PROPOSED ACTIVITIES
Based on the survey conducted, the following activities have been suggested:
- Daily Walks around London Parks;
- Yoga / Tai Chi / Skin Care Sessions;
- Dancercise (Exercise through Dancing);
- Theatre shows / Cinemas;
- Trips around England;
- Afternoon Teas;
- Cultural Day Out ;
- IT Training Day.
The FWA-UK team will carry on fundraising to show support and care to the elderly members of the community. The Association’s survey shows that the majority of the senior citizens that were interviewed are isolated in their own little world.
One of the FWA-UK’s projects includes looking into improving the welfare of some of these senior citizens who seem to have been forgotten by either their friends, family and community. We greatly appreciate any donation you can make to the FWA-UK; your donation will go a long way in assisting some of the more vulnerable members of our society.