Live Longer Better Network News – Issue No.17 April 2026

Join us as we celebrate five years of the Live Longer Better Network across Kent and Medway. This FREE in-person event is open to everyone.

• Wednesday 29 April 2026, 10:30 – 13:00, The Stour Centre, Ashford.

The event is a great opportunity to reflect, connect and hear from guest speakers Benna McInally, Public Health Specialist, who will talk about Age-Friendly Communities and Kathryn Excell, Hi Kent Senior Assessment Officer, discussing deaf awareness and how to support people with hearing loss.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Registration closes on 21 April. 

Follow this link to register for the Live Longer Better Network Event

Outswimming Cancer

Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust and the Kent and Medway Cancer Alliance have collaborated to offer a FREE supportive weekly group swimming session for anyone who has had cancer on Wednesdays 1.30pm – 2.30pm at Cascades Leisure Centre in Gravesend. This initiative includes a meet and greet for new starters plus a drink and chat afterwards. The pool is solely dedicated to this session and, if needed, the swimming teacher is available to encourage, reassure and help improve your swimming.

Follow this link to find out more

Dementia Adventure

An evidence-led award-winning charity creating dementia-inclusive experiences that bring joy, confidence and connection. Offering supported holidays, Green Letter Days Out and tips for connecting to nature and the outdoors. They also offer FREE resources and online training for friends and family to help people in their supportive role. Tailored training sessions can also be arranged for professionals, organisations and volunteers.

Find out about Dementia Adventure

Involve Connect 55+ Service

Involve are accepting referrals for their new Connect 55+ service, which launched on 1 April 2026. This free service is for people aged 55 and over who would benefit from additional support. It offers personalised help to engage with community groups and activities, build social connections and access information about local services, wellbeing resources and practical matters such as benefits. The service is available to people living in Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge & Malling, Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley.

Follow this link to find out more

Imago Together 55+

Imago’s new service, Together 55+, supports adults aged 55+ in Ashford, Canterbury and Swale to live healthier, more confident and active lives. Free support and guidance is provided, plus access to a structured 8 week Empower and Thrive programme and signposting to community, health and social care services.

Follow this link to find out more

Living Streets’ National Walking Month takes place in May. Walking gives us an opportunity to unwind, move our bodies, connect with others, and it’s totally free.

To help you discover the benefits of walking and explore a wide variety of walking opportunities across Kent and Medway, take a look at our dedicated walking pages on Everyday Active. Find a local walk and talk group, try a stile-free accessible route or maybe volunteer as a walk leader? You can also have a go at a wide range of walking or wheelchair sports, such as football, cricket, basketball and netball. There’s something for everyone on Everyday Active.

View the Everyday Active Walking Opportunities