Irwell Valley resident, Joan Denham, has a star role in tv documentary.
When Arte TV - a German/French public service cable broadcaster – was looking for someone to take part in a documentary about the various ways the over 60s in the UK spend their retirement - the producers looked no further than 69 yr old Joan Denham.
Joan, who lives at Hoyles Court - a supported housing development in Radcliffe managed by Irwell Valley - works at Age Concern, shops for housebound neighbours and helps to deliver meals on wheels in her local area.
She told Arte TV that living at Hoyles Court is a great option for older people who want to maintain active independent living with the reassurance that warden assistance is available if needed.
Joan moved into her self-contained bungalow after retiring from her job as a Switchboard Manager for 13 years at Answering Ltd. Since retirement, she has found new interests and undertakes hours of voluntary work in the community, largely due to the social network at Hoyles Court.
The development provides a range of studio and one-bedroom apartments with a guest suite for visiting relatives. Situated over 3 floors, lifts enable easy access and there’s a spacious reception and lounge area where residents organise regular activities including coffee mornings, fitness classes and day trips.
The film crew interviewed Joan at home before filming her during a typically busy day of errands at Bury Market and on duty at the local Age Concern.
Hayley Waltham, Services Co-ordinator at Hoyles Court, liaises with agencies for any assistance residents may need with their care, social interaction and maintaining their tenancy.
”The morning’s filming was very interesting,” said Hayley. “It added a touch of glamour to the scheme - and the residents now refer to Joan as ‘Joan Collins’!”
The programme will be broadcast later this year – so watch this space.