It aims to provide opportunities for older people to engage with arts and cultural events and to share this experience with others.

The Companions meet once every two months to attend an event with time for refreshments included. Volunteer facilitators work with the Clare Age Friendly Programme to draw up a calendar of events for companions. Events in the past have included visits to historical places such as the Hunt Museum in Limerick, Scattery Island, Clare, music concerts in glór, Ennis, coffee mornings, poetry readings and Christmas craft activities.

Clare Cultural Companions is a cross-sectoral initiative supported by Creative Ireland Clare, Clare Arts Office and the Clare Older People’s Council. Membership has grown from 83 companions in 2019 to 241 in 2022.

A significant outcome of Cultural Companions is an increased feeling of social connectedness. People that meet each other through shared interests such as cultural events can experience better mental well-being and feelings of contentment. Research suggests that social connectedness is a core psychological need for better life-fulfilment. Taking part in events like Cultural Companions is especially beneficial to older members of the community who may be experiencing loneliness and isolation.

There’s a thriving social and arts scene out there to be enjoyed if only we had someone with the know-how, the transport or the shared interest to get us going. That’s where Cultural Companions comes in.

For more information about Clare Cultural Companions, contact Helen Moloney, Clare Rural and Community Development, Clare County Council,  hmoloney@clarecoco.ie.