On Saturday 15th July, Linking Lives Lewisham held their annual ‘Golden Years Conference’. Heather Woods (our Training & Quality Standards Officer) went along and here is her description of the day….
‘Love, warmth, joy, recognition and respect was my experience at the 4th annual Golden conference,  The day was run by Elim Pentecostal Church in Lewisham and was organised by the coordinator of Lewisham Linking Lives – Shola Fiberesima.
Its purpose was to celebrate and recognise the contribution of the older generation.
It was an amazing day attended by over 100 people. We were treated to a beautifully cooked meal, entertained by  ladies dancing to R&B, listened to a professional jazz singer and songs from two gentlemen who were well into their âgolden yearsâ. We heard inspirational testimonies from other Linking Lives projects and the Diamond Club in Lewisham.
For me the part that moved me to tears on at least three occasions throughout the day was the tribute to individuals whose lives were publicly recognised and awarded. All individuals recognised had contributed to the health and wellbeing of others throughout their lives and were still making a difference, some even into their 90’s!
Despite working with older people for 10 years I took away a renewed perspective and appreciation of growing old well. Â The day also reignited the importance that Linking lives projects and other similar services play in enabling this to happen.’ Â
