Staying Social in Later Life: Companionship Groups for Older Adults in South Manchester
Discover social groups for older adults in South Manchester, fostering companionship, activities, and connection.
Are You or a Loved One Looking for More Social Connections?
Staying socially connected is essential for well-being and happiness at any stage of life, yet it can sometimes become more challenging with age. Fortunately, South Manchester offers a wide range of social groups and activities designed to bring people together, ensuring that older adults can enjoy fulfilling and meaningful connections within their community.
At Home Instead South Manchester, we believe that companionship is about more than just conversation—it’s about engagement, friendship, and shared experiences. Whether it’s a coffee morning, a creative workshop, or a gentle walk in the park, our Care Professionals support older adults in staying active, social, and connected in ways that suit their interests and preferences.
This blog explores some of the fantastic companionship groups available across South Manchester, helping older adults find new friendships, hobbies, and opportunities for social engagement.
Social and Community Groups in South Manchester
Chorlton and Surrounding Areas
Chorlton Good Neighbours Coffee Morning
Held every Thursday, this is a wonderful opportunity to meet others in a relaxed setting. Whether you enjoy a chat over tea and biscuits or prefer a quiet moment of companionship, this gathering provides a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Arts and Culture at The Edge Theatre
The Edge Theatre in Chorlton offers performances, creative workshops, and social events that bring people together through drama and storytelling. Whether you enjoy watching plays or want to take part in a class, this is a great place to meet like-minded people.
Walks and Café Trips
Chorlton Water Park is a beautiful setting for a leisurely stroll while feeding the ducks. Many enjoy a visit to Beech Road’s cosy cafes or a stop at North Star Deli for lunch. Local food spots like Unicorn and Barbakan also provide a chance to shop and socialise.
Didsbury and West Didsbury
Didsbury Good Neighbours Coffee Morning (Tuesday)
A relaxed and welcoming gathering where older adults can share stories, enjoy a hot drink, and make new friends.
Chair Yoga (Thursday at 12 noon)
A great way to stay active while socialising, these sessions help maintain mobility and flexibility in a friendly group setting.
Film Club (Friday Afternoon)
Held in a comfortable and social environment, this club is perfect for film lovers looking to enjoy classic and contemporary cinema with company.
Day Trips and Shopping Excursions
Many Care Professionals accompany clients on visits to Didsbury Park, Marie Louise Gardens, or even on a tram ride into Manchester to revisit old haunts or explore the famous Bury Market.
Urmston and Trafford Areas
Age UK Afternoon Tea (Wednesday at 1:30pm)
A delightful way to spend the afternoon, this weekly gathering offers tea, conversation, and warm company.
Knitting Group at the Library (Monday Afternoon)
For those who enjoy crafting, this group is a fantastic way to socialise while working on personal knitting or crochet projects.
Bingo and Coffee at Shawe Hall (Wednesday Morning)
A lively and friendly session where attendees can enjoy a game of bingo and a warm drink in a relaxed environment.
Walks and Local Outings
Many older adults enjoy a gentle stroll in Abbotsfield Park or Golden Hill Park, followed by a coffee at Lilys or breakfast at County Grills.
Creative and Arts-Based Groups
Manchester Art Gallery Events
- Philosophy Café (Third Tuesday of the Month): A chance to discuss thought-provoking topics over coffee before exploring artworks.
- Art Bites (Every Other Wednesday): Informal discussions about contrasting artworks in a relaxed setting.
The Whitworth Gallery Workshops
- Craft Workshops in the Garden Studio: Hands-on sessions for those who enjoy creative projects.
- Create and Debate: A space to share stories, listen to guest speakers, and engage in creative activities.
Brunswick Village Creative Workshops
Run by Age UK, these workshops cater to those over 55 and provide a space for painting, crafting, and socialising. A small donation covers materials.
Companionship Through Activities: Try Painting a Bird Box Together
Spending time with a Care Professional or companion doesn’t always have to mean going out. A wonderful way to connect is through shared activities at home. One idea for the upcoming spring is painting a wooden bird box together.
Not only is this a relaxing and enjoyable activity, but it also creates a lovely addition to the garden that will encourage wildlife. If you’d like to try this, you can find a Paint-Your-Own Bird House Kithere.
Outdoor Activities and Gentle Exercise
Heaton Park Groups
- Astronomy Group (March to September): Weekly stargazing sessions.
- Beekeeping Talks: Learn about local beekeeping and observe hives safely.
The North City Nomads
This group arranges day trips for those over 50, offering outings to Chester, Southport, and other destinations, accommodating mobility challenges.
Swimming for Over 60s
The Manchester Aquatics Centre offers free swim sessions and aqua aerobics for older adults with an MCRactive Pay As You Go card.
Share Your Story and Help Others Stay Connected
If you or a loved one have found joy in a local companionship group, we’d love to hear from you. Sharing your story could help others discover new opportunities for connection and friendship. Whether it’s a coffee morning, an art class, or a community gathering, your experiences could inspire someone to take that first step towards meeting new people.
Get in touch to share your story and let’s celebrate the wonderful community spirit in South Manchester.
A Caring Approach to Social Connection
At Home Instead South Manchester, we understand that Companionship isn’t just about activities—it’s about sharing laughter, experiences, and meaningful moments. Our Care Professionals not only provide practical support but also offer companionship, whether it’s enjoying a coffee, going for a walk, or simply having a chat at home.
If you’d like to learn more about our companionship services or need assistance accessing local groups, get in touch with our friendly team today.
Together, we can help make later life more fulfilling and connected.
Areas We Serve
Whalley Range, Didsbury, Withington, Burnage, Fallowfield, Old Trafford, Stretford, Urmston, Davyhulme, Flixton, and the Surrounding areas
M14 4, M14 5, M14 6, M14 7, M16 0, M16 7, M16 8, M16 9, M17 1, M17 8, M19 1, M19 2, M19 3, M20 1, M20 2, M20 3, M20 4, M20 5, M20 6, M21 0, M21 7, M21 8, M21 9, M31 4, M32 0, M32 8, M32 9, M41 0, M41 5, M41 6, M41 7, M41 8, M41 9
289 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 7GH, UK