Mind Matters at free Belfast event to help people support brain health and age well

Residents across Belfast are being encouraged to attend a free community event exploring brain health, wellbeing and positive ageing as part of the Belfast Learning Festival.

Hosted by Libraries NI at Shankill Road Library on Wednesday 10 June from 2:00pm–4:00pm, Mind Matters: Brain Health and Ageing Well will bring together expert speakers and practical advice to help people think differently about ageing and wellbeing. Booking is essential via Eventbrite.

The event will feature Dr Sinéad Eccles from The Open University, who will introduce the Future Life Toolkit and Take 5 to Age Well — practical resources designed to help people build habits that support healthy ageing, resilience and wellbeing throughout life.

Attendees will also hear from Siobhan Casey, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, about the importance of ensuring older people are valued, heard and supported within society.

The session aims to show that ageing well is not something that begins later in life, but something that can be supported through everyday actions and lifelong learning.

Dr Sinéad Eccles from The Open University said:

“Ageing well doesn’t begin at retirement — it starts much earlier through the small choices we make every day. The Future Life Toolkit encourages people to think proactively about their future wellbeing, relationships, learning and sense of purpose. This event is about empowering people with practical, evidence-based ways to support brain health and live well at every stage of life.”

Siobhan Casey, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, said:

“Supporting people to age well is essential to building healthier, more inclusive communities. Events like this help raise awareness of the importance of brain health, social connection and lifelong learning, while also ensuring older people feel visible, valued and supported. I welcome opportunities that encourage people to think positively about ageing and the role we all play in creating age-friendly communities.”

Helen Poston, Libraries NI Service Development Manager said:

“Libraries are trusted community spaces where people can come together to learn, connect and access support. We are delighted to host this important event as part of the Belfast Learning Festival and to work alongside partners including The Open University and the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland to help people explore practical ways to support wellbeing and healthy ageing.”

The free event takes place at Shankill Road Library on Wednesday 10 June from 2:00pm–4:00pm. Booking is essential via Eventbrite, by calling 028 9050 9232 or by emailing shankillroad.library@librariesni.org.uk.