Ageing Well

As we get older, our bodies naturally change — but taking small, steady steps to look after your physical health can make a big difference to how confident, independent and well you feel day-to-day.

Small actions like regular short walks, stretching, or breaking up long periods of sitting all build up over time. These simple habits support your energy, mood and confidence, helping you stay independent for longer and keep doing the things you enjoy.

Whether you’re just beginning to be more active or looking for new ways to stay strong and steady, there’s support right here in Blackburn with Darwen to help you age well, at your own pace.

Here is a short video that explains in more detail: Why does physical activity matter ?

Alternatively, you can read the Act Now, Age Better guide to keeping active for healthier ageing here: ID205718 Act Now Age Better_A3 leaflet_Digital.indd

Health & Wellbeing Coaches operate within the community to provide information, motivation and support, on a one-to-one basis, using health coaching to help individuals make healthy lifestyle changes. They encourage individuals to set their own goals and enable them to assess their lifestyle and discover which factors have an impact on their health.

Health & Wellbeing Coaches are skilled in motivating individuals, are caring and empathetic with the knowledge needed ‘to point individuals in the right direction’ to make lifestyle changes that will last a lifetime. They offer a flexible, confidential and non-judgemental service. Health & Wellbeing Coaches are there to support towards change, they don’t just tell people what to do; they stay with them to take their first steps.

For more information please click here: Refresh Blackburn with Darwen

Good mental health is just as important as physical health. Life changes — such as retirement, bereavement, health worries or feeling less connected — can affect how we feel day to day. But small steps to look after your emotional wellbeing can really help.

Getting outside, chatting with a friend, trying a new hobby or joining a local group can all lift your mood and reduce stress. Staying connected and doing things you enjoy supports clearer thinking, better sleep and a stronger sense of purpose.

The good news? You don’t need to start with big changes. Little steps — taken regularly — help you stay independent for longer, keep doing the things you enjoy, and maintain the freedom to live life your way.

You can find local support services and more information here: Mental Health Support For Adults – Be Well BWD

Many people notice changes in strength and balance as they get older. For some, daily tasks take a little more energy; for others, it may feel like they’re less steady or strong than they used to be. These experiences don’t define you — they simply highlight opportunities to support your body.

This can be a good time to think about what’s important for your wellbeing:

· What activities do I want to stay confident doing?

· How do I want to feel as I move through daily life?

· What would help me feel safer, stronger or more supported?

Small steps like light strength building exercises, eating well, staying hydrated or joining local activity groups can all help build confidence and stability.

Blackburn with Darwen Health and Wellbeing service offer lots of different types of support including a falls prevention programme, to find out more please see the Falls Prevention Services section below, or visit their website here: Refresh Blackburn with Darwen

As we get older, our immune system becomes weaker, making infections like flu, pneumonia, COVID19, RSV and shingles more serious and harder to recover from. Vaccinations reduce the risk of severe illness, hospital stays and long term complications, helping people stay active and independent for longer.

There is also emerging evidence that preventing infections may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Infections such as flu and shingles can trigger inflammation and cardiovascular stress — factors linked to increased dementia risk. Vaccination may therefore play a role in protecting brain health as we age.

Free vaccinations make it easier for everyone to access this protection, supporting healthier ageing not just for individuals but also for families and communities.

Only you know what feels right for your body and your life. Taking a moment to reflect on alcohol or smoking is about giving yourself options — options that can help you stay independent, active, and well for longer.

As we get older, many people notice these habits affect them differently. Alcohol may feel stronger or impact sleep, balance, or mood, while smoking may feel less helpful over time. You might begin to notice the benefits of small changes — such as easier breathing, more energy, or fewer health concerns.

Even small adjustments can make a meaningful difference, helping you feel more confident, clearer in your thinking, and more in control of your wellbeing.

It can help to pause and ask yourself:

• How do alcohol and smoking make me feel these days?
• Do I notice benefits when I cut down?
• Would small changes help me feel steadier or more in control?
• How do these habits fit with how I want to live as I age?

Simple steps — like having an alcohol-free day, choosing lower-strength drinks, using smaller measures, delaying your first cigarette, or gradually cutting down — can help you explore what works for you.

Whenever you feel ready, supportive, non-judgemental help is available across Blackburn with Darwen.

You’re in control — and even small steps can make a big difference.

Smokefree Blackburn with Darwen – A Stop Smoking Service

Spark | Drug & alcohol support services in Blackburn with Darwen

Care Network know that your home is more than just bricks and mortar.

As the Home Improvement Agency for Blackburn with Darwen they are dedicated to helping people live in safety and with dignity at home. They offer a range of services to support you to maintain and move around your home and remain healthy, safe and comfortable, so that you can continue to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

Care Network’s Healthy Homes team offers a fresh pair of eyes and specialist knowledge and support so that your home supports / nurtures your continued health and wellbeing. They can:

• Help if you are struggling to keep your home warm, or pay your fuel or water bills
• Make sure you are getting the best deal on your gas and electricity bills – potentially saving you hundreds every time you switch
• Give advice around home insulation, draught-proofing your home, and where to go for trustworthy information about government grants
• Help you to register on the Priority Services Register(s), so you get assistance if there’s a power cut or you do not have a water supply
• Provide advice and guidance on how to keep your home free from unhealthy damp, mould and condensation
• Let you know about equipment and adaptations that makes moving around the home easier and safer for all ages
• Provide information and advice around assistive technology options to help you maintain independence
• Offer a free home safety check to help prevent accidents such as trips and falls
• Provide access to their safe trader scheme for any work identified, should you wish to use this service
• Check if you are entitled to any financial help (for example money to help you repair or maintain your home, grants available for heating and accessing charitable funds)
• Let you know about other services and support to help your wellbeing and quality of life 
• Provide you with a unique service that is tailored to your circumstances

This video gives a useful overview of the Healthy Homes service: (14) Healthy Homes at Care Network – YouTube

Care Network’s Safe Trader Scheme is available to people living in Blackburn with Darwen. Over 80 local businesses have been through their rigorous quality assurance checks and specialist training so that vulnerable people in Blackburn with Darwen can arrange for home improvements easily and with peace of mind.

For a free home safety check you can:

• Call Care Network on: 01254 507255
• Email: healthyhomes@carenetwork.org.uk
• Website: How we help you to have a healthy home | Care Network (Blackburn with Darwen) Ltd

Health and Wellbeing Service – Falls Prevention Programme

As we get older, our muscle strength and balance naturally reduce, increasing the risk of experiencing a fall. Simple strength and balance exercises, combined with staying active, can help reduce this risk, and it is never too late to start.

The Health and Wellbeing Falls Prevention Programme provides support to help improve strength, balance and confidence. These improvements can make everyday activities, such as walking, shopping and maintaining independence at home, easier to manage while reducing the risk of future falls.

For more information or additional support, complete the self-referral form below or contact the Wellbeing Service:

• Telephone: 01254 682027
• Email: wellbeing@blackburn.gov.uk

You can also access the self-referral form using this link Refresh Blackburn with Darwen

STEADY On!  Falls Prevention Service

The STEADY On! falls prevention service is part of the Intensive Home Support Service (IHSS). This non-clinical team assesses individuals at risk of falling in their homes.

The primary goal of STEADY On! is to maintain independence and safety for individuals, while also reducing hospital admissions caused by preventable falls.

STEADY On! supports individuals at risk of falling by offering a comprehensive service that includes self-care education sessions, community collaboration, one-on-one home assessments, structured sessions, and events.

If you, a relative, neighbour, or friend could benefit from a STEADY On assessment, you can self-refer at any time by contacting ICAT. With your consent, the team can refer you to other services that support you at home, such as:

• IHSS
• AGE UK
• Social prescribing
• District Nursing
• Integrated therapy
• Lancashire Fire and Rescue
• Carers Link
• B with Us housing
• Department of Work and Pensions (including signposting for blue disability badges)

Referral process and opening times:

Referrals can be made by contacting ICAT at 01282 805989 (Intermediate Care Allocation Team), available 24 hours a day,
7 days a week. Simply request a referral to STEADY On.

Introduction to IHSS (Intensive Home Support Service)

IHSS are a hospital avoidance service covering East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen, where you can receive hospital level treatment in the comfort of your own home.

You may not require our support at this time, however you may have a diagnosis or condition that worsens over time, so by introducing ourselves now, you will have information, should you need our support in the future. 

What can we offer?

• We are open 24 hours, 7 days a week
• You can self-refer into the service by contacting ICAT – Intermediate Care Allocation Team, the referral hub on 01282 805989
• We can respond within two hours if you are acutely unwell
• We can prescribe medications
• We can monitor you virtually using technology enabled smart watches in our virtual ward
• We are a multidisciplinary team, and you will receive a visit by the most appropriate professional, this could be a Doctor, Consultant Practitioner, Nurse, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist or Assistant Practitioner

Typical conditions or presentations that we treat

• Exacerbation of COPD
• Exacerbation of heart failure
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• New confusion
• New skin infection
• Monitoring of abnormal blood tests
• Falls without obvious injury

This is not an exhaustive list, please contact ICAT on 01282 805989 where we can offer advice or signpost you to a more appropriate service if not us.

Conditions that we do NOT treat

• Chest pain central crushing (not relieved by GTN if available)
• Severe breathing difficulties (in comparison with normal)
• Loss of consciousness
• Facial/limb weakness
• New fit or seizure
• Bleeding (heavy or persistent)
• Spinal or injury following trauma

Please contact 999 immediately.

Dementia Support and Fire Safety

People living with dementia can face additional risks at home, including an increased risk of fire due to memory difficulties, confusion, and changes in judgement. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service offers advice and support to help people with dementia remain safe and independent in their own homes.

Support available includes:

• Home Fire Safety Checks – free assessments to identify fire risks and provide personalised safety advice.
• Fire safety guidance for carers and families – practical information on smoke alarms, escape planning, kitchen safety, and reducing hazards around the home.
• Dementia-friendly home advice – signposting to resources that can help make the home environment safer and easier to navigate.
• The Herbert Protocol – a nationwide scheme that helps carers prepare essential information in case a person living with dementia goes missing. The protocol is delivered locally through Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, the Alzheimer’s Society and North West Ambulance Service.
• Safety and independence advice – guidance on lighting, falls prevention, emergency planning, and other measures that can help people continue living safely at home.

For more information or to request a Home Fire Safety Check, visit the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service website: Dementia and Fire Safety | Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service

Memory Assessment Unit

Memory assessment services are located across Lancashire and aim to comprehensively assess anyone of any age who might be worried about their memory. The teams are made up of nurses, doctors, occupational therapists and psychologists. Anyone can be referred via their GP, or other hospital specialist because of concerns.

Memory assessment services aim to deliver quick and timely diagnosis to people whose symptoms suggest that they may have dementia. Please speak to your GP if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one.

BwD Dementia Information Hub- Support & Advice Drop in Sessions

A friendly monthly drop-in session bringing together local organisations that support people living with dementia, their families, and carers. The sessions provide:

• Information, advice and guidance following a dementia diagnosis
• Support for family members and carers
• Signposting to local services, activities and community support
• Opportunities to speak with several organisations in one convenient location
• A welcoming and informal environment with no appointment required

The sessions are delivered in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society and Blackburn Rovers Community Trust at their community hub. Time 9.30am – 12.30pm Free to attend. No booking required – simply drop in.

Darwen End Stand (Ground Floor)
Ewood Park
Blackburn
BB2 4JF

2026 Dates-held on the last Wednesday of each month:

• 29 July 2026
• 26 August 2026
• 30 September 2026
• 28 October 2026
• 25 November 2026
• No session in December

Telephone: 01282 447757
Email: eastlancashire@alzheimers.org.uk

Memory Makers at Age UK BwD

Living with memory loss or having a diagnosis of dementia can be difficult to come to terms with but many older people live very well with both. Age UK BwD trained staff use a technique called cognitive stimulation therapy which focuses on opinions rather than just facts or reminiscence. The sessions are small in size so that everyone feels comfortable and amongst friends and are tailored to the audience. There are a range of activities and sessions on offer including games, crafts, history, current affairs and music. The sessions have proven benefits of improving social confidence, speech and memory.

For more information please call Age UK BwD on 01254 266620

Read more on their website here: Age UK Blackburn with Darwen | Memory Makers – Cherry Tree Library

Memory Café by BwD Carer’s Service

• Support for people who live with Dementia including their carers 
• A safe and comfortable environment
• Information and advice  
• Activities
• A chance to relax, socialise, meet new people and exchange experiences
• Just turn up – no need to book

First Tuesday of the month at Kingsway 1 – 3pm.

More information can be found here: Support Groups – Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service

Dementia Peer Support Group by BwD Carer’s Service

• For carers who look after someone diagnosed with dementia  
• Advice and tips on how to look after someone with dementia as well as your own mental health and wellbeing 
• Guest speakers 

Please note this groups is for carers only.  People living with dementia are welcome to attend our Dementia Café

Last Tuesday of the month at Kingsway 1-3pm

Carers Support – Asian Carers Group

Weekly group for carers (including those supporting someone with dementia) with language support and cultural awareness. Language support and Urdu speaking group.
They help Asian carers with English, so they can express their needs and concerns and provide information regarding what’s available to help locally.

Address: Kingsway, Kingsway Court, Greenhurst Place, Blackburn BB2 1NA
Cost: Free
Telephone: 01254 688440
Email: office@bwdcarers.org.uk
When: Every Monday, 10am–12pm

Free Counselling for Dementia Carers

Dementia Carers Count can offer carers up to six free remote counselling sessions. Initial appointment usually arranged within a couple of weeks. Counselling sessions are organised around what works best for the carer and follow up support is available if needed.

If you or someone you know could benefit from counselling, call Dementia Carers Count on their Carer Support Line for free on 0800 652 1102.
Cost: Free
When: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm

Dementia Navigator Service by the Alzheimer’s Society

Providing advice, information, and emotional support, Alzheimer’s Society is here for anyone with any form of dementia, as well as for friends and family supporting someone with dementia. Examples of how your local Dementia Adviser might help include:

• Answering questions about dementia, symptoms, planning for the future, and what’s available
  to you (and how to access and navigate local supports and the care system)
• Working together with you to find ways to help continue doing the things you enjoy or that are important to you
• Talking through with you when you meet new challenges to try and find ideas to help
• Practical advice and sharing ideas learned from the lived experiences of other local people
• Helping you connect with local groups and services

You can reach the service by contacting 01282 447757 or by emailing eastlancashire@alzheimers.org.uk

Open Door Café

An informal, friendly and welcoming space where people with various forms of Memory Loss or Dementia can come together for a cuppa, chat and activities (optional). For anyone experiencing or living with memory loss and their family, friends and neighbours. Bring an appropriate adult to support you.

Address: North Blackburn URC, Brownhill Road, Blackburn BB1 8DS
Cost: Free
Telephone: Elizabeth Bradley 01254 665541 or Mal Breeze 01254 674862
Email: mjembradley@gmail.com
When: Fortnightly on Monday afternoons, 2pm–4pm

Memory Matters by Care Network

There are many reasons why people experience memory issues and for anyone who is having problems or is concerned about their memory, or cares for someone who is, we can offer advice and support to help keep you safe and independent at home. Our Memory Matters service is available to residents in Blackburn with Darwen who are living with any form of memory loss, including dementia, at any stage, even before diagnosis.

Telephone: 01254 507255 (Option 3)

Alzheimer’s Society – Dementia Support Line
Support, advice, and information for anyone affected by dementia.
Telephone: 0333 150 3456
Website: www.alzheimers.org.uk

Alzheimer’s Society – Blackburn with Darwen
Support, advice, and information for anyone affected by dementia.
Telephone: 01282 447757
Email: eastlancashire@alzheimers.org.uk

Age UK Blackburn with Darwen
Activities, wellbeing support, and opportunities to stay connected for people living with dementia and their carers.
Telephone: 01254 266620
Email: enquiries@ageukbwd.org.uk

Adult Social Care – Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
Adults Services supports people in Blackburn with Darwen with their social care needs.
Telephone: 01254 587547
Website: www.blackburn.gov.uk/adults-and-health

Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service
Support for family and friends caring for someone with dementia and Carers assessments.
Telephone: 01254 688440
Email: office@bwdcarers.org.uk

Carers UK
Support for carers, including those caring for someone with dementia.
Telephone: 0808 808 7777
Website: www.carersuk.org

Care Network
The Home Improvement Agency for Blackburn with Darwen, working for healthy homes, people and communities.
Telephone: 01254 507255
Email: info@carenetwork.org.uk

Dementia UK – National Support Line
Specialist support for families and carers, including Admiral Nurses.
Telephone: 0800 888 6678
Email: www.dementiauk.org

Memory Assessment Service
The Memory Assessment Service comprehensively assess anyone of any age who might be worried about their memory.
Telephone: 01282 657832

NHS Dementia Support
Advice, resources, and guidance for living with dementia.
Website: Dementia – NHS

Royal British Legion
A community dementia nurse service which offers specialist support, information and advice for the carers of people living with dementia.
Telephone: 0808 802 8080
Email: ANSupport@britishlegion.org.uk

Age UK – Blackburn with Darwen

Age UK Blackburn with Darwen offers a wide range of activities and support services that can help older adults stay active, connected, and engaged within their local community. Their programme includes opportunities for social interaction, physical activity, wellbeing support, and structured daytime activities all delivered in welcoming and inclusive settings across Blackburn and Darwen.
They also offer support with pensioner benefits and entitlements, as well as quality assured advice and information on a number of issues.

Many of these activities are suitable for people living with dementia and provide opportunities to maintain independence, build confidence, enjoy meaningful social connections, and take part in enjoyable group experiences. With a variety of sessions available, there are options to suit different interests, abilities, and levels of support.

For further information about any of these services, please contact Age UK Blackburn with Darwen:
Telephone: 01254 266620
Email: enquiries@ageukbwd.org.uk
Website: Welcome to Age UK Blackburn with Darwen

Sewing Group by the Carer’s Service

Come along and have fun if you are interested in making your own garments. Learn how to set up a sewing machine and how to take measurements. Learn about different seams and stitches.

Address: Kingsway, Kingsway Court, Greenhurst Place, Blackburn BB2 1NA
Cost: Free
Telephone: 01254 688440
Email: office@bwdcarers.org.uk
When: Every Wednesday, 10.30am–12.30pm

Walking Group by the Carer’s Service

For carers who would like to get out and about and enjoy some exercise. Walking is ideal for improving all aspects of physical and mental health. Discover the countryside and nature on your doorstep and make new friends.

Cost: Free
Contact: 01254 688440 for more details on current walks.
Email: office@bwdcarers.org.uk
When: Every Wednesday and Thursday 11am–1pm

Kiran Ladies Group at Bangor Street Community Centre

The Kiran Ladies Group meet regularly providing companionship, friendly chats, social engagement, inter-generational activities and social outings.

Address: Bangor Street Community Centre, Norwich Street, Blackburn BB1 6NZ
Telephone: For more information about the group, call the Bangor Street Community Centre reception on 01254 691551.

Bastwell Buddies at Bangor Street Community Centre

The Bastwell Buddies provide friendly conversation, an opportunity to form friendships through activities, events and outings.

Address: Bangor Street Community Centre, Norwich Street, Blackburn BB1 6NZ
Telephone: For more information about the group, call the Bangor Street Community Centre reception on 01254 691551.

Milan Group at Bangor Street Community Centre

The Milan Group come together to enjoy a range of different activities. The group provide a warm and social atmosphere for the older generation in the community. The clubs are very informal so you can join in as little or as much as you choose.

Address: Bangor Street Community Centre, Norwich Street, Blackburn BB1 6NZ
Telephone: For more information about the group, call the Bangor Street Community Centre reception on 01254 691551.

Relax and Chat with Care Network

Join our friendly Relax and Chat group. This warm and welcoming group has been meeting regularly at Care Network for some time now and is growing in popularity!

The Care Network are running two weekly sessions. Drop-ins are welcome, please choose just one session from the two below to attend.

Address: Blackburn Central Library in the Geddes Room, Town Hall Street, Blackburn BB2 1AG (Second Floor)
Telephone: 01254 507255 (Option 2)
When: Friday mornings, 10.30am–12pm or Friday afternoons, 1.30pm–3pm

Reconnection to Wellness – Moving with the Seasons

A 44-week mindful movement programme across the year for people in Darwen and Blackburn living with long-term illness who currently do under 30-60 minutes of exercise a week.

Moving with the Seasons blends gentle movement, mindful body awareness and easy breath practices to improve strength, balance, flexibility and mood. Sessions are beginner-friendly and adaptable to all levels of mobility (including chair-based options). Each season follows the rhythms of nature and the energetic focus of Zen Yoga.

These sessions are aimed at Adults 55+ with a long-term condition who are new or returning to activity. Beginners welcome.
No floor work required unless you want it; chairs provided.
Pre-booking is essential.
There are two locations we run these sessions:

• Mondays 2pm–3.30pm at The Hub at Shadsworth, Rothesay Road, Blackburn BB1 2ES
• Fridays 11am–12.30pm at Springvale Methodist Church, Watery Lane, Darwen BB3 2ET
• Telephone: 07758 133519
• Email: dawn@reconnection2wellness.org
• Website: Ancient Wisdom

Friendship Group with Bingo at Derwent Hall

Bingo, refreshments, raffles, summer day trips, Christmas party. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street, Darwen BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments.
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Mondays, 1pm–3pm

Sequence Dancing at Derwent Hall

Run by Janet and David Peel, great fun, lively popular tunes and refreshments. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street, Darwen, BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments.
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Tuesdays 1.30pm–4pm

Darby and Joan Club at Derwent Hall

Bingo, refreshments, raffles, outings, Christmas party. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Wednesdays 1pm–3.30pm

Hobnobs Club at Derwent Hall

Crafts, such as diamond art and colouring, indoor board and card games, refreshments and socialising. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street, Darwen BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Thursdays 1pm–3pm

Friends of Derwent Hall

Charity fundraising group, including knit and natter. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Mondays 10am–12pm

Social Quiz at Derwent Hall

An informal quiz with the emphasis on socialising and working the brain with a relaxed but taxing, mark your own quiz. Refreshments included. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street, Darwen BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Wednesdays 1.45pm–3.45pm

Pop in Café at Derwent Hall

Here we provide a warm welcome, tea/coffee and snacks, all at very reasonable prices. A chance to come along and enjoy some company with a brew or just sit, relax and have a read. Open to anyone over the age of 50.

Address: Derwent Hall Day Care Centre, George Street, Darwen BB3 1AY
Cost: Small charge to cover running costs and refreshments
Telephone: 01254 702259
Email: dopwderwent@gmail.com
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am–1pm

Remember the Rovers at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Remember the Rovers supports local residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s to rekindle memories of Blackburn Rovers Football Club for those who attend.

Address: Legends Lounge, Ewood Park, Blackburn BB2 4JF
Cost: Free
Email: Ben Howard at ben.howard@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 508129
When: Every Wednesday, 10am–12pm

Rovers 60s Lunch and Social Club at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Guests can enjoy a two-course meal whilst taking in the friendly, community spirit that has made the group such a success over the years, with various fun activities such as our bingo and raffle.
Offering local residents aged 60 and over a safe, welcoming environment to enjoy a hot meal, laughter, and friendship.

Address: Ewood Park, Blackburn BB2 4JF
Cost: £10 per lunch
Email: ryan.loftus@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 508256
When: Last Thursday of every month (contact for specific time and location)

Community Hub at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Open to all adults, aged eighteen and over, we provide a range of support that all residents can access on a weekly basis.

Address: On the ground floor of the Darwen End Stand, Ewood Park, Blackburn BB2 4JF
Cost: Free
Email: ryan.loftus@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 508256
When: Every Wednesday, 9am–5pm

Community Wellbeing Walking Football at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Offering playing opportunities to anyone with physical and mental health conditions, aiming to keep fit and active whilst socialising.

Address: Blackburn Rovers Indoor Centre (BRIC), Ewood Park, Nuttall Street, Blackburn BB2 4JF
Cost: Free
Email: healthandwellbeing@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 924890
When: Every Monday, 10.30am–12pm

Walking Cricket at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Low level physical activity session for adults with long term health conditions.

Address: Our Lady and St John School, North Road BB1 1PY
Cost: Free
Email: healthandwellbeing@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 924890
When: Every Wednesday, 7.30pm–8.30pm

Jack’s Walkers at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Any adult can join us for a 1-hour walk around the perimeter of the Ewood Park turf, followed by a brew and chat indoors after.

Address: Darwen End, Ewood Park, Nuttall Street BB2 4JF
Cost: Free
Email: healthandwellbeing@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 924890
When: Every Thursday, 10am–11.30am

Men in Sheds at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

Connects socially isolated men with mental health concerns, with other experiencing similar conditions. People living with dementia welcome.

Address: Darwen End, Ewood Park, Nuttall Street, Blackburn BB2 4JF
Cost: Free
Email: ilyas.patel@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 508257
When: Every Thursday, 10.30am–12.30pm

Line Dancing at Blackburn Rovers Community Trust

All are welcome to join our basic to intermediate routines, followed by a brew and chat afterwards.

Address: Thwaites Theatre, Aqueduct Road, Blackburn BB2 4HT
Cost: £3
Email: jennifer.calvert@brfctrust.co.uk
Telephone: 01254 508129
When: Every Friday, 10am–11.30am

Inspired by Art with the Bureau Centre for Arts

Arts and crafts, plays, pay as much as you can afford.

Address: 5 Exchange Street Blackburn BB1 7JN
Telephone: 01254 664215
When: Thursdays 1pm–3pm

Creative Café with the Bureau Centre for Arts

Stitch socials, print making workshops, textiles workshops, create and chat, socials and paper club.

Address: 5 Exchange Street Blackburn BB1 7JN
Contact: 01254 664215
When: Saturdays 1pm–3pm

Feel the Beat – Drumming for Wellbeing

Drumming group with the Bureau Centre for Arts

Address: 5 Exchange Street Blackburn BB1 7JN
Telephone: 01254 664215
When: Fortnightly, Thursdays 6.30pm–8pm

Bereavement Café

East Lancs Hospice’s Bereavement Support Cafe offers a safe and welcoming space for anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. Whether you’d like to talk, listen, or simply spend time in the company of others with a shared experience, you’re very welcome to join us.
Enjoy a drink, chat with others, and take comfort in knowing you’re not alone.

Address: East Lancs Hospice, Park Lee Road, Blackburn BB2 3NY
Cost: No fee
Telephone: 01254 965857
When: The first and third Mondays of each month from 1pm–3pm.

Shadsworth Hub

All of the below are open to all.

Address: The Hub at Shadsworth, Rothesay Road,
Blackburn BB1 2ES
Telephone: 0300 330 5535
Email: hello@newground.co.uk
Website: Home – Newground Together