A call for artists to work with older people

Experienced artists are also welcome to advertise their skills to older people or older people's groups registering on the Network database.

Arts for Older People Network exists to support older people in the arts and those who work with them through the provision of training, advice on funding and a platform for lobbying and profiling change.

Over the next few months, as part of its "Learning to Microwave" project named after a Seamus Heaney poem identifying a new lease of life in old age, the Network will develop a basic database of artists willing to work with older people.

In addition, the Network will research good practice in arts by and for older people across Northern Ireland. Particular areas of interest include good practice / policies / procedures adopted by organisations in NI in terms of their treatment and involvement of older people, whether this be as an older artist (e.g. showcasing work of older artists), participant (e.g. programmes for specifically older participants, intergenerational programmes) or attendee (e.g. concessionary fares, off-peak rates, travel support, etc).

We are also interested in the experience of older artists, the portrayal of growing older within the arts and good practice by local arts groups targeted towards older members, participants or audiences.

If you, your group or organisation has produced information, research or guidance relevant to this research, Arts for Older People Network would also welcome any details you could provide.