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Dear Islington resident,

Sharing the following upcoming events, activities and resources - hoping you find them useful. If there's anything you'd like to share for inclusion in future newsletters, please email: communications@ageukislington.org.uk

Men's Social and Lunch - Thursday 18 June, 12.30-2pm

As we get older, it can sometimes help to give our social circles a boost. Men’s groups offer a relaxed way to meet other locals, have a chat, share a meal, or enjoy an activity together. Age UK Islington and Whittington Park Community Centre are offering a welcoming taster session. Click below to find out more and book!

Act Now, Age Better

You might have seen the Age UK Act Now, Age Better campaign on TV and in the papers? It's to encourage people aged 50+ to take steps towards a healthier, more active later life.

See the latest Age UK 'Team Age Better' video. As the video says, trying some regular exercise '...Isn't about medals, it's about mornings that feel easier, stairs that don't feel steeper, it's about feeling like you for longer..."

Find free and affordable local groups in Islington

A good starting point to find a range of excercise opportunities is the Islington Get Togethers webpage. You can also click below to see a video of the relaxed, social, weekly Better Leisure Multi-sports Get Togethers at Sobell and Finsbury Leisure Centres (£2.80 per session).

Let's Talk May: Dementia prevention, early diagnosis and support

If you weren't able to go to last month's Let's Talk, no need to miss out, click below for the information and resources that were shared, plus more!

Find out about about dementia, how to get a diagnosis and what you can do to reduce the risk of getting dementia. Discover local social groups near you and ways to keep active and engaged - keeping social and active can make a massive difference! "What's good for your heart, is good for your brain." Sophia Stevens, Senior Commissioning Manager, Age Well.

The amount most households pay for gas and electricity is set to increase by an average of 13% from 1 July, following the latest Energy Price Cap announcement by energy regulator Ofgem. If you're on a fixed energy tariff, this increase will not affect you for the term of your contract. Around half of households are currently on fixed-rate tariffs.

Click below to visit the MoneyHelper website for practical advice on managing your energy costs and reducing your bills. If you're concerned about being able to afford future energy bills, particularly when heating use increases after the summer, find out how SHINE Energy can support you.

AGE UK ISLINGTON GET TOGETHERS

Let’s Talk Event

Thursday 18 June, 10am-1pm

Islington Council (Community Space) 222 Upper Street, N1 1XR

Join us for the June edition of our monthly Let's Talk series, a relaxed social event with discussion, guest speakers and refreshments. This month, discover what really matters for maintaining good balance, mobility and good health - they're all linked! We’ll also be hearing about how to stay cool in a heatwave and what to consider when hiring help at home - such as a cleaner or care agency and how to fund them. See June's Let's Talk poster.

It's a fully accessible venue.

Park Cuppa Special: Talk About Chinese Culture

Wednesday 24 June, 11am - 12pm

Cally Clock Tower Centre, Caledonian Park, N7 9HF

Join us for our special edition of the weekly Park Cuppa - we'll be hearing from volunteer Yisa Shi for an engaging session about Chinese culture, language and history. There will be plenty of time for a chat and to catch-up with other locals too, over a cuppa. It's a fully accessible venue.

Tech Break (Online using Zoom)

Friday 5 June, 1pm

Backing up photos, videos and contacts in the cloud

Discover how to make the most of your smartphone, tablet or laptop with our friendly online tech group hosted by knowledgeable volunteer Simon. Click below to request a Zoom link to join via your digital device from home.

See also the Tech Break slides from 1 May, when Simon showed attendees how to use Google Docs, which you can use for writing letters and much more! Also check out the Ability Net online information sessions.

Tech, Tea and Biscuits, in partnership with PPCP
Mondays 1pm, 2pm
Dame Geraldine Hall, 6-9 Manor Gardens, London N7 6LA
Get help using your smartphone, tablet, laptop from a knowledgeable, patient and friendly member of the Tech, Tea and Biscuits team. They can help you with things that you’re struggling to do, as well as guide you through getting started using tech. Book an appointment online or call 020 3928 9370.

ORGANISED BY OTHER ORGANISATIONS

Staying Healthy This Summer

Wednesday 3rd June, 2–4pm or online session Thursday 18 June

Christ Church Blackfriars Bridge, 27 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8NY

Age UK London is hosting a practical and informative session to help people stay healthy and well over the summer months. London GP Dr Oge Ilozue will share easy-to-follow advice on maintaining physical and mental wellbeing during warmer weather, with opportunities for attendees to ask questions. To book or ask questions click below to email Sharon Tynan.

Free Information Session on UK Asylum & Immigration Law

Thursday 4th June, 2–4.30pm

Muslim Welfare House, 233 Seven Sisters Road, N4 2DA

This free session features an immigration solicitor and migrant housing specialist discussing asylum processes, immigration law, housing support and related services. Attendees can ask questions and receive guidance in a welcoming environment. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information call 020 7263 3071 or email info@mwht.org.uk

Summer 2026 Volunteering Fair

Thursday 4th June, 12–2pm

Camden Town Hall, Claudia Jones Room, 5 Judd Street, WC1H 9JE

Meet local organisations from Islington and Camden and explore volunteering opportunities that can build skills, confidence and community connections. If you're interested in volunteering, there are also volunteer roles available with Stuart Low Trust and Parent House, including wellbeing, outreach and parent-support opportunities.

Live Well with Health Conditions

Fridays 1.30–4pm from 5th June for 6 weeks

Hornsey Rise Health Centre, Hornsey Rise, N19 3YU

This free six-week programme helps people with long-term health conditions build confidence in managing their health and wellbeing. Sessions cover practical self-management skills, symptom management and staying active. Participants learn alongside others in a supportive environment and gain tools to improve daily life. For more information call 020 7527 1189 or email whh-tr.Self-Management@nhs.net.

Islington in Bloom

Competition closes 5th June

Islington in Bloom encourages residents to make the borough greener through gardening and planting projects. No gardening experience or private garden is needed. Categories include balconies, window boxes, shared spaces and community projects. The competition celebrates creativity, sustainability and community pride while improving local spaces.

Cally Clock Tower Centre

Market Road, London N7 9HF

London Open Gardens Weekend - 6th and 7th June

Alongside the Open Gardens event, the We Love Cally Park Art Exhibition will be on display. Visitors can also join the “Love Letters to Cally Park” workshop, writing or drawing on postcards with thoughts about the park.

Sew and Mend workshop - Thursday 18th June, 10am–2pm

Join the workshop and bring items to repair or adjust.

Free Outdoor Gym Session
Saturday 20 June 10.30-11.30am
Caledonian Park, Market Road, N7 9PL

If you missed the outdoor gym sessions over the past few months, this is your final opportunity to take part in a free tuition session with a qualified instructor. Learn how to use the outdoor gym equipment safely and effectively, build your confidence, and improve your fitness. For more information, email callypark@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 4374.

Highbury Roundhouse Community Centre, 71 Ronalds Rd, N5 1XB

Over 55s Summer BBQ (June)

Join the annual Over 55’s BBQ, a chance to enjoy good food, meet new people, and spend time with friends in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. 

Southend Coach Trip (July)
Enjoy a summer day by the seaside with an Over 55’s trip to Southend-on-Sea. Take in the sea air, stroll along the promenade, enjoy the beach and spend time with fellow residents. 

For information about travel arrangements, costs and booking, contact 
the Over 55s Co-ordinator on over55@highbury-roundhouse.org.uk

Healthy Generations Week
8th - 12th June, 10am - 3pm

Jean Stokes Community Centre, Coatbridge House, Carnoustie Drive, N1 0DX

Enjoy a free week of health and wellbeing taster sessions including mindfulness, Tai Chi, strength and stability exercises and digital inclusion support. UCL Pharmacy student volunteers available daily. Places are limited by room capacity. No booking required – simply drop in on the day.

Carers Week takes place from 8–14 June

Carers Week celebrates the vital contribution unpaid carers make every day - looking after a friend, partner or relative because they are older, have a long-term health condition, mental health condition, disability or drug or alcohol dependency. If you look after someone on a regular basis, come and join us for welcoming events including the Carers Celebration on 12 June. Meet others in a similar situation and find support. Booking is essential as places are limited.

Creative Workshops: Protest and Recognition in Queer Islington, 1970–2026

Banner Making Workshop: Wednesday 4th June 5–8pm 

Zine Making Workshop: Monday 9th June 5–8pm

Cubitt Artists, 8 Angel Mews, N1 9HH

Join exhibition co-curators Diana Puntar and Russell Perkins for free workshops exploring queer histories of protest and visual activism. Participants will create banners and zines inspired by materials from Islington’s Pride Archives. Materials are provided, no experience is required, and everyone is welcome. 

Also see Archives Drop-in: Islington's Pride at Islington Museum on Thursday 25 June.

Learn to Make a Zine: DIY Self-Care Workshop

11, 18 & 25 June 2026 (Thursdays, doors open 9.30am)

The Parent House, 55 Calshot Street, London, N1 9AS

Join a free creative workshop for Islington parents hosted by Zoe @Limberdoodle, creator of The Mama Brain Book. Explore zine-making and self-care through hands-on activities in a welcoming space. Free refreshments provided. Places are limited - email limberdoodle@gmail.com to book or find out more.

Community Resilience Workshops

Fridays 12–2pm for 4 weeks starting 19th June

St Luke’s Community Centre, 90 Central Street, EC1V 8AJ and Caxton House Community Centre, 129 St John’s Way, N19 3RQ

These free workshops explore how climate change affects daily life, including hotter summers and colder winters. Participants will learn practical ways to support themselves and their communities during extreme weather and emergencies while building resilience, confidence and local connections. For more information and to sign up see the posters - at

St Lukes and at Caxton House.

Summer Courses at WM College Open Day

Saturday 20th June, 11am–4pm

Working Men's College, 44 Crowndale Road, NW1 1TR

Book now for our Summer School Courses, happening over two weeks in July. To find out about our Autumn courses, come along to our next Open Day, which includes a Maker Market and our own Summer Exhibition.

Refugee Week 15th–21st June

This year’s Refugee Week programme celebrates the contributions, creativity and resilience of people seeking sanctuary in the borough. The programme has expanded since last year, with new events and activities continuing to be added throughout the week.

Green Care for You

22nd June to 5th July

Various outdoor locations and self-guided activities

Green Care for You helps unpaid carers reconnect with nature and support their wellbeing through simple outdoor activities. Designed to fit around caring responsibilities, the programme encourages manageable, restorative experiences that promote relaxation, wellbeing and time for self-care.

Click below for more information and to sign up.

Diabetes Self-Management Programme

Wednesdays 24th June and 1st July, 10am–1pm

Killick Street Health Centre, 75 Killick Street, N1 9RH

This free two-session course helps people with Type 2 diabetes develop confidence, knowledge and practical self-management skills. Sessions cover lifestyle, wellbeing and understanding diabetes in a supportive setting, providing useful strategies for managing health and everyday wellbeing.

To book call 020 7527 1558 or email whh-tr.Self-Management@nhs.net

Movement for Wellbeing

Wednesdays 11am–12pm starting 24th June

Holdspace, Risinghill Street, N1 9SY

This free movement class welcomes all abilities and focuses on improving wellbeing through gentle physical activity. Sessions support mobility, confidence and social connection in a relaxed environment, making them suitable for anyone wanting to improve wellbeing through movement and community participation. Simply drop in or email Andrew at adkerton@gmail.com.

Summer Festival
Saturday 27th June, 11am-3pm
St Luke’s Community Centre, EC1V 8AJ

Join the annual Summer Festival for a day of food, drinks, games, arts, crafts, and face painting. A family-friendly event with something for everyone! For more details, email info@stlukes.org.

USEFUL UPDATES

Short Courses at Capital City College Group

Explore a wide range of short courses designed to help you learn new skills, boost your career or progress into further study. Options include online and in-person learning across subjects such as digital skills, construction, health, business and creative industries, with flexible study and expert teaching support. Many may be free depending on eligibility. Study from home or at college and gain practical skills for work or further education.

Older Person’s Council Tax Discount

If you’re state pension age and live in an Islington property, you may be eligible for a £100 council tax discount. The discount will be backdated.

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 Age UK Islington

If you are finding things difficult and need someone to talk to, don't forget that you can call the Age UK Islington Helpline on 020 7281 6018 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm) or email gethelp@ageukislington.org.uk.

The Age UK Islington Helpline offers a listening ear, practical information, and support. Our team can connect you to further in-depth assistance from our Enablement or Navigation teams, who have expertise across a range of specialist services. If you need extra guidance, we can also provide regular check-ins and ongoing contact over several weeks to help you navigate what you’re experiencing.

Contact the Helpline to receive our newsletter straight to you inbox (if you're not already on our mailing list)!