ESFC · Events
Events & meetings
Updates from ESFC partner meetings, study visits, and community activities across Europe.
January 14, 2025
First Partner Meeting In Seville
On January 14, 2025, the ESFC (European Seniors Friendly Communities) project officially kicked off with its first partner meeting in Seville, Spain. Representatives from A2F (Spain), Sinergia (Italy), and Meath Partnership (Ireland) gathered to outline the project’s implementation plan, focusing on creating senior-friendly communities across Europe. The meeting highlighted the co-design of senior-friendly community guidelines, with focus groups planned for February. This successful start sets the stage for a collaborative effort to enhance the well-being and social inclusion of older adults in Europe.
April 8–9, 2025
Study Visit in Italy
The study visit in Bitonto and Bari, Italy, spanned two days, combining collaborative discussions and practical insights into senior-focused initiatives. On April 8th 2025, participants attended a presentation by Synergia in Bitonto as part of the Erasmus+ project Building Better Communities for the Elderly. The session highlighted strategies to challenge ageism, address barriers to senior volunteering, and reignite hobbies through peer-led programs. Key proposals included digital skills workshops, national advocacy campaigns, and intergenerational engagement. The following day (April 9th 2025), visits to two housing models showcased innovative approaches to senior living. La Cura Di Una Casa emphasized communal, self-sufficient living with robust support teams, while the Supported Housing Initiative provided stable housing for seniors, including those with histories of homelessness. Both models prioritized affordability, social inclusion, and resident empowerment, though challenges like community stigma and funding sustainability were noted. The visit concluded with reflections on integrating systemic change and creative engagement to enhance seniors’ visibility and wellbeing in communities.
April 7-10 2026
Exchange Visit in Ireland
The European Seniors Friendly Communities project brought together 33 participants from Ireland, Spain and Italy for a mobility exchange hosted by Meath Partnership in County Meath. Through workshops, community visits, and hands-on activities, participants explored active ageing, social inclusion, and lifelong learning. The mobility strengthened cross border cooperation and generated practical ideas for local communities. Both the Irish Countrywomen's Association (ICA) and Gardeners' Dynamic have also signed a cooperation agreement with the project, committing to help promote its activities and use its materials in their work with older people.
June 3, 2026
Final Conference & Project Meeting in Almendralejo, Spain
On 3 June 2026, the ESFC project held its Final European Conference and Final Partner Meeting in Almendralejo, Spain. The event brought together seniors, educators, local stakeholders, and community professionals to celebrate the project's achievements. Participants explored the project's educational modules and findings from local pilot activities with seniors and community actors. The Mayor of Almendralejo and the President of the University of Older Adults expressed their support for initiatives promoting active ageing, inclusion, and participation. Following the conference, partners from Spain (Aging to the Future), Ireland (Meath Partnership), and Italy (Sinergia Sociale) met to review final activities, assess impact, discuss sustainability, and explore future European cooperation. The meeting marked a key milestone, as the project will continue until August 2026. The ESFC partnership thanks everyone who contributed to the project over the last two years.
July 6, 2026
Local Workshop in Bitonto, Italy
As part of the European Senior Friendly Communities project, Sinergia organised a local workshop with the "Rete per la Cura" in Bitonto, Italy. The event brought together local organisations and stakeholders to discuss the future of Bitonto Attiva, an initiative inspired by the ESFC project and designed to turn its vision into practical actions for the local community. Participants shared ideas on strengthening local networks, promoting active ageing, encouraging intergenerational dialogue, and creating opportunities for older adults to contribute actively to community life. The workshop also provided an opportunity to share ESFC resources and experiences while laying the foundations for a stronger local alliance committed to inclusion, participation, and community wellbeing. Sinergia Go2Europe thanks all the partners and stakeholders who contributed enthusiastically to building a more inclusive, connected, and senior-friendly Bitonto.
July 11, 2026
Final Local Event in Termonfeckin, Ireland
On 11 July 2026, Meath Partnership organised the final Irish event of the European Seniors Friendly Communities project at An Grianan ICA, Newtown, Termonfeckin, Co. Louth. The event brought together 34 older adults, educators, community representatives and other stakeholders. Participants were introduced to the ESFC project, its progress and the European Seniors Friendly Communities Guidebook. They explored the guidebook's six key areas: community and healthcare, transportation, outdoor spaces and buildings, respect and social inclusion, housing, and social participation. The event also included activities and group discussions encouraging participants to consider what makes a community age-friendly, what younger generations should better understand about older people, and what changes could make local neighbourhoods more accessible and supportive. The event provided an opportunity to share ESFC resources, exchange perspectives and promote greater awareness of active ageing, social inclusion and older people's participation in community life. Meath Partnership thanks everyone who participated and contributed to the discussions.