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.