The catalysts behind a sporting initiative to encourage over-65s to become more active have been shortlisted for a national award.
The Golden Games Partnership – comprising Aberdeen Health and Social Care Partnership, Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust, Sport Aberdeen, Aberdeen Sports Village, Aberdeen City Council and NHS Grampian – has reached the finals of the Scottish Charity Awards.
The Games were launched in 2011 as a series of free events for over-65s, with 10 activities across two days, which attracted 80 participants.
However, last year, the event had expanded to comprise 71 activities across five days with 425 people taking part.
The 2016 festival next month will run for seven days, with new activities including belly dancing, ladies’ walking football and Golden Oldies Rugby.
Councillor Len Ironside is chairman of Aberdeen’s Integration Joint Board which is responsible for integrated health and social care services in the city.
He said: “The Games team really has been the perfect partnership, bringing big health benefits and new friendships to hundreds of older Aberdonians.
“From the care homes pentathlon to the individual activities at 30 venues across the city, the Golden Games have inspired older folk to get active, get healthy, get independent and meet new friends.”
The group has been shortlisted for the Perfect Partnership Award and the winner will be announced at a ceremony in Edinburgh next month.
All shortlisted entries will also compete for the People’s Choice Award decided by a public vote at www.scvo.org.uk/charity-award
For more information and to take part in the Games, call 01224 522270.
