What :  

Buckinghamshire’s older population in rural communities face challenges such as limited access to services, digital knowledge and access, transport barriers, and consequential social isolation. BOPAG has observed increased loneliness, disparities in support, plus a rising demand for printed information. Older residents repeatedly signalled the need for consistent, accessible information and safe social opportunities, especially in isolated rural areas.  

Responding to this need BOPAG provides practical, accessible direct support across Bucks and works with a wide network of local organisations to coordinate between support groups and raise key issues with relevant decisionmakers. Partners include local charities, health services, community groups, and council teams that support older people across the county. Together, this ecosystem strengthens information sharing, enhances referral pathways, and supports a holistic, communitywide approach to ageing. 

Recognising BOPAG’s strategic approach to support positive ageing, built on strong collaboration with local organisations, the Rothschild Foundation invested in BOPAG in 2022 with a one-year grant. Following evidence of its success, this led to a multi-year grant in 2024.  

Core funding is providing BOPAG with the stability required to increase reach and strengthen services. In year one of their multi-year grant activity has included: 

• The Hoot magazine, sharing information on health, dementia, bereavement, social groups, fraud awareness, and inspirational later‑life stories. With a 40% increase in hard‑copy circulation in year one (454 in May 24 to 637 in May 25). 

• A telephone line, supporting older residents directly and connecting them to relevant services when needed.  

• Bi‑monthly networking meetings with rising attendance, enabling direct dialogue with local councillors, NHS representatives, speakers from dementia services, minority groups and many other organisations working within the older adult sector in Buckinghamshire. 

• Events and social programmes that promote safe connection and positive ageing, including Golden Years gatherings attracting high attendance. Attended by over 200 older people in year one and over 500 at last years event. 

These services help to strengthen awareness of what help is available, reduce loneliness and ultimately build confidence among the older residents of Buckinghamshire. 

“Just to say I still thorough enjoy receiving the BOPAG magazine. The content is so very helpful as a carer to my elderly 93 year old father”  

Learning: 

One of BOPAGs key findings revealed that many isolated older people remain out of reach. Thus, BOPAG plans to relocate the Golden Years event to reach different communities, expand magazine distribution in North Bucks and into retirement and lunch club settings, increase dementia content, and strengthen its signposting role in the dementia network. The next event, scheduled for October 2026 will be rebranded with a Connections in the Community feel and will focus on social, cognitive, health and physical activities available in the local area.