Older people in and around Kendal can access free advice, activities and selected winter vaccinations at a festival being held at Kendal Leisure Centre on Sunday 4 October.
The South Lakes Age Friendly Festival will run from 11am to 2.30pm. Entry is free and visitors do not need to book: the council says people can simply turn up on the day.
The event is aimed mainly at older adults, although everyone is welcome. It is one of three festivals being organised by Westmorland and Furness Council around the International Day of Older Persons on 1 October. The council announced the programme on 22 September.
What will be available at Kendal Leisure Centre
Healthcare professionals will be offering winter vaccinations to eligible people. The Kendal and Barrow festivals are the only two of the three events offering vaccinations; the Penrith festival will instead feature an immersive dementia experience.
The Kendal event will also include taster sessions for local activities, live music and dance performances, and stalls run by local groups and organisations. Visitors will be able to find information about activities, services and support available across the South Lakes.
Demonstrations will show equipment designed to help people live independently at home. There will also be an equipment take-back service for anyone with items they no longer need.
The council’s Better Homes Team will explain Disabled Facilities Grants and its Handyperson service. The team can advise on adaptations including ramps and level access, stair lifts, level-access showers, specialist toilets and changes to make a home wheelchair accessible.
Check vaccination eligibility before attending
The council’s announcement refers to “eligible people” but does not specify which vaccines will be available at the Kendal festival. Anyone hoping to receive a jab is advised to check their eligibility before going.
NHS eligibility for a free flu vaccination includes people aged 65 or over, including those turning 65 by 31 March 2027; people aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions; pregnant women; care-home residents; and main carers for an older or disabled person or people receiving Carer’s Allowance.
COVID-19 vaccination eligibility is narrower. It includes people aged 75 or over, including those turning 75 by 31 January 2027, people with a weakened immune system and residents of care homes for older adults. Anyone unsure about eligibility should ask their GP surgery or pharmacy.
Advice on adapting a home
The Better Homes Team can provide a starting point for people struggling with everyday tasks at home. A Disabled Facilities Grant cannot be applied for directly through the housing team. Westmorland and Furness Council says a referral from Adult Social Care is needed first, followed by an occupational therapist’s assessment.
Adult Social Care can be contacted on 0300 373 3301. Council tenants should contact their Social Housing Adaptations Officer instead.
The Kendal Leisure Centre event is at Burton Road. Other age-friendly events listed by the council include Penrith Leisure Centre on Thursday 1 October, Barrow Leisure Centre on Friday 2 October, Silver Sunday at Barrow Town Hall on Sunday 4 October and Silver Saturday at Coronation Hall in Ulverston on Saturday 17 October.
