Dear Islington Carer,
Sharing the Islington Carers Hub newsletter - find out about upcoming free local events, activities and useful resources. Don't miss out!
A Small Check Could Make a Big
Difference Many households are struggling with the cost of living. Financial support and benefits could make a real difference, yet many people do not claim everything they are entitled to. Research estimates £120 million in benefits go unclaimed in Islington, affecting over 34,000 households.
Check what you may be eligible for using Islington Council’s Benefits Calculator. See also the Age UK guide on winter warmth benefits. For benefits checks, contact Islington Council's Income Maximisation Team. Look out for the Carers Benefits Talk bookable below.
Keeping Active to Boost the Mood Great to see everyone who attended the Islington 'Move for Mood' event at Vibast last week. Perfect for a January day, Islington residents came to find out more about free and affordable exercise options, try taster exercise sessions (including Boxing and Chair Yoga) and chat to local activity providers. Click below for information and resources from the day and see a short video of the Move for Mood event.
Let's Talk January - Volunteering and Healthy Generations Activities
Voluntary Action Islington spoke about the volunteering roles that they advertise on their website and in-person support to find something that's right for them. Many people in the audience spoke about the volunteering that they already do - inspiring to hear! Healthy Generations hosted a session about techniques to help with sleep and shared details of their programme of in-person and online events.
NEW Tech, Tea and Biscuits Digital Support (Manor Gardens) Book 50 minute appointments on Mondays at 1pm or 2pm, at Dame Geraldine Hall, 9 Manor Gardens, N7 6LA
We're delighted to announce that Age UK Islington has a new partnership with PPCP who run the Tech, Tea and Biscuits digital support sessions. If you're struggling to do something on your smartphone, tablet or laptop, or want to learn how to e.g. set up an email address, book a GP appointment online or do an online supermarket shop, this is the perfect way to get help.
Click below to view the calendar and book your one to one appointment, or give them a call. Appointments are also available at other venues. AGE UK ISLINGTON GET TOGETHERS
Let's Talk Thursday 26 February 10.30am-1.45pm
222 Upper Street, London N1 1XR
Let's Talk is a relaxed, social and informative session! This month, learn about mental health support from NHS North London Foundation Trust, including Talking Therapies services. Talking Therapies can be helpful for dealing with low mood, stress, depression and anxiety, amongst other circumstances. There will be plenty of time for questions and discussion. Following a break for a light lunch, there's the opportunity to find out about support for when alcohol or other substances start to affect wellbeing.
Carers - Benefits Talk Monday 9 February, 2–3pm
Jean Stokes Community Centre, Carnoustie Drive, N1 0DX
Are you claiming all the money you’re entitled to as an unpaid carer? Join our Carers Talk to hear directly from benefits experts from the DWP and Islington Council. The session will explain Carer’s Allowance, National Insurance credits, Universal and Pension Credit, council tax support, and help with health, housing, and heating costs for carers and families, with time for questions and practical guidance.
Carer for Carer Meet Up @ Duke of Cambridge (monthly)
Tuesday 10 February, 10.30am-12pm Duke of Cambridge, 30 St Peter's St, London N1 8JT Our monthly carers’ sessions offer a supportive environment to share experiences and learn together. Enjoy a coffee, talk through the ups and downs of caring and pick up helpful tips from others. Please click below to book your place.
This month, we'll be joined by guest speaker, Daniel Rego, Age UK Islington case worker and housing specialist.
Carers Park Theatre Matinee Thursday 19 February, 2pm
Park Theatre, Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, N4 3JP
If you’re in the mood for something cultural, or haven’t been to the theatre in a while, why not book for our pay-what-you-can matinee at the Park Theatre? This month, the performance is either Rat Trap or After Miss Julie (we'll know closer to this time). Come just for the performance, or meet us for coffee at 2pm beforehand. We will confirm bookings the afternoon before, subject to ticket availability.
Carer for Carer Meet Up @ St Lukes (monthly)
Tuesday 24 February, 10.30am-12pm
St Lukes Community Centre, 90 Central St, London EC1V 8AJ
Our monthly carers’ sessions offer a supportive environment to share experiences and learn together. Enjoy a coffee, talk through the ups and downs of caring and pick up helpful tips from others. Please click below to book your place.
ORGANISED BY OTHER ORGANISATIONS
Objects with a Story – Over 60s Group
Wednesday 4 February, 11am – 12pm
Central Library Gallery, 1st Floor, 2 Fieldway Crescent, N5 1PF
Share the story behind a meaningful object at this Over 60s session. Bring along an item that has personal significance and connect with others as you explore memories, history, and creativity. A relaxed, welcoming environment encourages conversation, socialising, and storytelling while enjoying a friendly community setting. For more information call 020 7527
6900
Singing for Wellbeing
Wednesday 4 February, 5 – 6.30pm
Room TM3-03, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Road, N7 8DB
Lift your spirits and meet new people at this fun, singing workshop with musical director Christina Carty. No experience is needed - just bring your voice and enthusiasm! Sing for wellbeing, creativity, and social connection, and enjoy refreshments in a welcoming environment where music brings people together.
8-Week Mindfulness Course
Wednesday 4 February – 25th March, 6:30–8:30 pm
Holloway Neighbourhood Group via Zoom
Discover the power of mindfulness in our 8-week online course designed to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Learn to stay present, notice thoughts without judgment, and replace negative patterns with positive strategies. Join us to develop practical tools for mental wellbeing and create space for calm and clarity in your daily life.
Over 60s Book Club
Thursday 5 February, 2 – 3pm
West Library Gallery, Thornhill Square, 107 Bridgeman Rd, N1 1BD
Discuss “Caledonian Road” by Andrew O’Hagan in this welcoming Over 60s Book Club. Connect with fellow readers over literature, conversation, and community. Whether you love books or want to meet new people, this session is a friendly space to share insights, explore stories, and enjoy the pleasure of reading together.
Health & Nature Walk
Friday 6 February, 10 – 11am
Islington Ecology Centre, 191 Drayton Park, N5 1PH
Take a gentle guided stroll through Islington Ecology Centre to observe wildlife, enjoy fresh air, and connect with others. Suitable for all adults, this dementia-friendly walk combines physical activity, nature exploration, and social connection. Free tea and coffee follow the walk, offering a chance to chat, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings. No need to book, just turn up! For
info: 020 7527 4374 / ecologycentre@islington.gov.uk
Islington Fixers – Repair Party
Saturday 7 February, 12 – 4pm
Cally Clock Tower Centre, Caledonian Park, N7 9HF
Help reduce e-waste and upskill your repair skills at the Islington Fixers Repair Party. Bring items to fix, learn repair techniques, and join a community-led initiative promoting sustainability. Connect with neighbours, share knowledge, and make a real environmental impact while having fun in a friendly, hands-on workshop.
LIFT x TechTalk – 8-Week Employability Programme
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday, 6 – 8pm
Mostly online, with some in-person sessions
LIFT and TechTalk offer an 8-week employability programme for residents aged 18+ in Camden, Hackney, and Islington. Choose a pathway in Sales, Marketing, or Data and gain job-ready skills, portfolio projects, CV & LinkedIn support, and three months of post-programme community support. No coding experience required; over 70% of tech roles are non-technical. Apply by 8 February 2026.
Over 55’s Valentine’s Dinner & Dance
Wednesday 11 February, 1 – 3pm
Highbury Roundhouse Community Centre, 71 Ronalds Road, N5 1XB
Celebrate Valentine’s with a three-course meal, wine, entertainment, and raffle. Enjoy flowers, chocolates, and good company in a fun social environment. Tickets cost £10. This is a perfect opportunity to meet fellow residents, celebrate friendship and enjoy a warm, welcoming community event. Click below to contact Highbury Roundhouse.
Introduction to Hand Embroidery Course
Starts Thursday 12 February, 12 – 3pm (3 weeks)
Cally Clock Tower Centre, Caledonian Park, N7 9HF
Learn six basic embroidery stitches in a relaxed, creative session inspired by the park’s flora and fauna. Suitable for beginners and advanced learners. Booking advised via callypark@islington.gov.uk. Develop skills, express creativity, and enjoy a friendly community atmosphere.
The Minds Together Dementia Café – Hearts and Connections
Thursday 12 February, 1 – 3pm
Goodinge Community Centre, Goodinge Rd, N7 9GZ
Join the monthly Minds Together Dementia Café focused on wellbeing and connection. February’s theme is “Hearts and Connections,” with Tai Chi for dementia and Park Theatre’s spoken poetry. All residents, including those without a formal dementia diagnosis, are welcome. Sessions include creative activities, social interaction, lunch, and refreshments. See more Islington Dementia-friendly event listings.
Start Strong Islington: Startup Programme
Applications open until 12 February 2026
For residents of Islington and Camden
Turn your idea into a thriving venture with Start Strong Islington. This fully funded 6-week hybrid programme offers workshops, mentoring, peer support, and up to £1,000 funding to help launch your business. Gain the skills, confidence, and network to make a real impact in your community.
Illustrated Talk – Street Art in Shoreditch & Spitalfields
Friday 13 February, 6.30 – 8.45pm
Jean Stokes Community Centre, Caledonian Road, N1 0DX
Discover the vibrant street art of Shoreditch and Spitalfields in this illustrated talk by Paul Baker. Explore the best examples, learn about the artists, and meet fellow enthusiasts. Just turn up; refreshments provided. A great opportunity to learn, socialise, and explore London’s artistic culture.
Galentine’s Day – Creative Social Evening
Friday 13 February, 7 – 9pm
Whittington Park Community Centre, N19 4RS
Celebrate friendship and fun at this Galentine’s Day event. Enjoy games, creative activities, snacks, and a mates-based quiz with your favourite women. Cis-women, trans-women, and non-binary folks welcome. Bring your own alcohol if desired, with soft drinks and snacks provided. Tickets cost £10.
Bird Feeders and Fat Balls
Monday 16 February, 11.30am – 12.30pm
Caledonian Park, N7 9HF
Help feed the birds this winter by making bird feeders and fat balls to hang around the park. Learn about local wildlife while enjoying a hands-on, educational, and fun activity for all ages. A perfect outdoor activity to connect with nature and community.
Creative Writing Workshop
Wednesdays 18 February – 25 March, 1 – 2pm
Whittington Park Community Centre, N19 4RS
Experiment with creative writing in a relaxed lunchtime workshop. Weekly prompts and guided exercises are provided, with optional time to work on personal projects. All levels welcome. Share stories, develop skills, and connect with a supportive community. Writing materials and refreshments are included. Sessions are free, with an optional £3 donation.
Islington Chinese Association Lunar New Year Celebration
Saturday 21 February, 11am – 4pm
ICA, 21 Hatchard Road, N19 4NG
Celebrate Lunar New Year with traditional Lion Dance, Fitness Dragon Dance, Irish music and dance, Hong Kong pop, interactive cultural stalls, and Hong Kong street snacks. A free event for all ages to enjoy arts, culture, and community connection.
AI for Us – Women’s Workshop
Tuesdays, 12.30 – 2pm, 4 weeks starting 24 February
Better Space, 127 Farringdon Rd, EC1R 3DA
Explore AI in a friendly, supportive workshop for women and those who identify as women. No AI experience is needed - just basic IT skills and curiosity. Learn together, ask questions, and gain confidence using AI tools. A four-week series designed to make AI accessible and engaging.
Stuart Low Trust Have Your Say & Music Quiz Night
Friday 27 February, 6.30 – 8.45pm
Jean Stokes Community Centre, Caledonian Road, N1 0DX
Have your say on how Stuart Low Trust can improve its services and enjoy a fun music quiz with prizes. Meet new people, socialise, and enjoy refreshments in a friendly community setting.
Health & History Walk: Grimaldi Park
Friday 27 February, 11am
Islington (meeting point details via Islington Guided Walks)
Take a gentle, guided walk through green spaces with expert local history guides. Learn fascinating facts about Islington’s past while enjoying light exercise and connecting with the community.
Green Guardians Gardening Groups
Tuesdays, 10am – 12pm: Market Road Gardens, N7 9GR
Wednesdays, 10am – 12pm: Newington Green Gardens, N16 9PX
Join The Garden Classroom for relaxed community gardening in Islington green spaces. No booking required—just turn up and get involved. Gloves, tools, guidance, and refreshments are provided. Sessions follow school terms and are closed during half terms and holidays. Connect with nature and your community while helping maintain local gardens.
Volunteer Garden Sessions
Wednesdays & Saturdays, 10am – 12pm
Octopus Community Plant Nursery, behind the Hollins and McCall Houses, Tufnell Park Road, N7
Join the Octopus Community Plant Nursery for weekly volunteer gardening sessions. Help grow food for local Food Hubs, take part in workshops, and connect with your community. No booking required - just turn up and get involved in this friendly, hands-on space promoting sustainability, skills development, and community connection.
Healthy Generations – Exercise, Music & Digital Sessions
Community and online sessions across Islington
Healthy Generations offers a wide range of events, classes, and sessions focused on exercise, music, and digital skills. There’s something for everyone, whether you want to get active, explore creativity, or improve your digital confidence. Sessions take place both online and in the community. Click below for more information on classes and how to join.
Business Start-Up – Firm Futures
Monthly workshops, 2026 (starting 25 March)
St Luke’s Community Centre, 90 Central Street, EC1V 8AJ
Firm Futures supports local residents not in full-time employment to start their own business. Through workshops, mentoring, grants, and subsidised workspace, participants develop confidence and practical skills to launch a business. Registration is open now. Email firmfutures@slpt.org.uk
to register by 23 February 2026.
LGBT History Month 2026: Camden & Islington
Sunday 1st – Saturday 28th February 2026
Venues across Camden & Islington
February is LGBT History Month, and forum+ is proud to present a vibrant programme celebrating local LGBT culture, heritage, and history. With over 30 events—including walks, workshops, exhibitions, films, talks, and performances—there’s something for everyone. Most events are free and open to all.
Wheels for Wellbeing
Wheels for Wellbeing supports disabled people to enjoy cycling through the Wheels4Me scheme, offering free loans of adapted bicycles for Londoners over 18 whose needs aren’t met by standard hire schemes. Loans include delivery and collection, a cycle training session, insurance, and a cycle lock. Expert guidance and a nationwide advice line are also available.
NHS Healthy Choices Quiz
Take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle with the NHS Healthy Choices Quiz. Answer questions about movement, eating, alcohol, smoking, mental health, and sleep, then receive a personalised score and guidance. The quiz also signposts free digital behaviour change tools that have helped millions. A simple, practical way to understand and improve your wellbeing. More information and access: NHS Healthy Choices Quiz.
Healthy Minds Healthy Bods February Health pack The latest pack from local charity Healthy Minds Healthy Bods is a bumper read - it features Mindset, Nutrition, Exercise and Health, plus Lazza’s first-time recipes, quizzes and games, recommendations and more.
Can you take a minute to do a Google review for Age UK Islington We’d really appreciate your support with a quick Google review - it only takes a minute and can help others! Reviews appear when someone searches for Age UK Islington on Google or Google Maps. You can leave a star rating and, if you like, add a comment to share your experience of the information, guidance and any support that you've received.
Contacting Islington Carers Hub
If you are in need of financial or practical guidance related to your wellbeing or for the person you care for, or simply need a listening ear, don't forget that you can call the Islington Carers Hub Helpline on 020 7281 3319 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm) or email mailto:info@islingtoncarershub.org.
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