Free festival for older people at Kendal Leisure Centre, Sunday 4 October, 11am to 2.30pm, with winter jabs for eligible people and advice on home adaptations.
A free festival for older people comes to Kendal Leisure Centre on Sunday 4 October, from 11am to 2.30pm. There is no need to book. You turn up on the day.
The South Lakes Age Friendly Festival is one of three the council is running around the International Day of Older Persons, which falls on 1 October. Westmorland and Furness Council announced the programme on 22 September. The festivals are aimed mainly at older adults, but the council says everyone is welcome.
What will be there
According to the council, the Kendal festival will have:
- health care professionals giving winter vaccinations to eligible people
- taster sessions of local activities
- live music and dance performances
- stalls from local groups and organisations covering activities, services and support in the south Lakes
- demonstrations of equipment that helps people live independently at home
- an equipment take-back service for items you no longer need
- the council’s Better Homes Team, advising on Disabled Facilities Grants and the Handyperson service
The vaccinations are the practical draw. Of the three festivals, only Kendal and Barrow will have them. The Penrith event has an immersive dementia experience instead.
Who can get a winter vaccination
The council’s announcement says “eligible people” but does not say which vaccines will be offered. Check your eligibility before you go.
The NHS lists these groups, among others, for a free flu vaccine this winter:
- people aged 65 or over, including anyone who turns 65 by 31 March 2027
- people aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions
- pregnant women
- care home residents
- main carers for an older or disabled person, or anyone receiving carer’s allowance
The COVID-19 vaccine is narrower. It is offered to people aged 75 or over, including those who turn 75 by 31 January 2027, people with a weakened immune system, and residents of care homes for older adults.
If you are unsure, the NHS advises asking your GP surgery or pharmacy.
Home adaptations: how the grant actually works
The Better Homes Team stall is worth a visit if you or someone you live with is struggling at home. A Disabled Facilities Grant can pay towards changes such as:
- ramps and level access
- stair lifts
- level access showers and specialist toilets
- making a home wheelchair accessible
You cannot apply to the housing team directly. The council’s own page says you need a referral from Adult Social Care first. An occupational therapist then visits and assesses what you need. The Adult Social Care team is on 0300 373 3301. Council tenants go to their Social Housing Adaptations Officer instead.
The other festivals
If Sunday does not suit, the council lists these events too. Distances are straight-line from Kendal, so the drive is longer.
| Event | Where | When |
|---|---|---|
| Eden Age Friendly Festival | Penrith Leisure Centre, about 23 miles north | Thursday 1 October, 10am to 2pm |
| Furness Age Friendly Festival | Barrow Leisure Centre, about 24 miles south-west | Friday 2 October, 10am to 3pm |
| Silver Sunday | Barrow Town Hall, about 24 miles south-west | Sunday 4 October, 11am to 3pm |
| Silver Saturday | Coronation Hall, Ulverston, about 17 miles south-west | Saturday 17 October, 2pm to 4pm |
What it means for you
- Go on Sunday 4 October between 11am and 2.30pm. It is free and there is nothing to book.
- Check you are eligible if you hope to get a winter vaccination there.
- Bring questions about adapting your home. The Better Homes Team can explain the grant route in person.
- Hand back unused equipment. The festival has a take-back service for items you no longer need.
Kendal Leisure Centre is on Burton Road. For town centre parking and charges, see our guide to parking in Kendal.
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