A nature-based initiative is tackling loneliness and isolation for residents over the age of 50 in Seaton.
Participants have enjoyed outdoor activities including bird-watching, campfire cooking, and bat and dawn chorus walks – always followed by tea, biscuits, and conversation.
Seaton Wetlands Activity Club is the result of a partnership between East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) Countryside Team and Age UK Devon.
Its fortnightly sessions are designed to combat loneliness and isolation among ‘older’ adults through connection with nature.
Autumn and Christmas craft workshops are among activities planned in the coming weeks.
The group stream dipping at Seaton Wetlands. Photo: EDDC
Pete Ferlie, active in later life manager at Age UK Devon said: “These sessions offer older adults a chance to enjoy the outdoors, have fun, and explore nature.
“Since the group’s relaunch in early 2024, participants have built new friendships and even visited the site independently outside of the organised sessions, which supports Age UK’s goal of reducing loneliness and isolation.”
Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC’s Portfolio Holder for Coast, Country, and Environment, added: “The activity club is a fantastic initiative that encourages older individuals to connect with nature and each other at Seaton Wetlands, our award-winning nature reserve: a site which we take great pride in.”
Sessions costing £3.50 are led by the Countryside Team education ranger Penny Evans with support from Age UK Devon volunteers. They take place every other Friday from 10.30am to noon.
For more information, contact Age UK Devon by emailing info@ageukdevon.org.uk or call 03332412340.
