Older People's Strategy - Newcastle City Council

34Older people bring their knowledge of history and culturaltraditions which can be shared across generations andbetween cultures to build greater understanding in increasinglydiverse communities. There is also scope for older people towork with refugees and asylum seekers or internationalstudents to help them acclimatise and improve language skills.There are a range of networks in the city (e.g. NewcastleCouncil of Faiths) which help to build stronger links intodifferent communities in Newcastle.ActionsA range of approaches are needed to encourage and supportthe contribution of older people to the community. More recognition of the importance of infrastructureorganisations which support older people’s contributionand investment in their sustainability. More opportunities for networking between older people’sgroups and support agencies to celebrate achievements,share information, support new and emerging groups andbecome more effective in accessing resources. Information NOW (Newcastle Older People’s Website) hasthe potential to be a key mechanism for raising awarenessof older people and staff in health, housing and socialcare about a range of community activity, and encouragesignposting (see Aim 2). The development of innovative approaches to volunteering/befriending to match changing needs, aspirations anddifferent cultures, and ensuring the resources to support them.