Competition to showcase older people’s lives through a lens

Councillor Iftikhar Ahmed, cabinet member for adult care (right) snaps the Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Billy Sheerin

A special photography competition has been launched to help capture the daily lives of older people across the borough.

Local residents have been challenged to snap iconic images to help challenge stereotypes around growing older and capture daily life across the borough.

The Age Proud competition has been organised by the Greater Manchester Older People’s Network and forms part of the ‘Great Place’ project.

Six winning entries will have their photographs displayed at a special touring exhibition that will showcase the lives of older people.

In a further boost the lucky winners will also receive a photography masterclass from the renowned Simon Buckle.

Entries can be entered across six categories:

• New beginnings
• Passing it on
• Journeys
• Making a difference
• Together
• Being yourself

Councillor Iftikhar Ahmed, cabinet member for adult care, said: “This is a brilliant idea which will capture and visualise the lives of thousands of older people. As we live longer and healthier lives, it’s important to recognise that for many residents life is just beginning when they reach the age of 50. I am looking forward to entering a photograph or two and I would urge others to do the same. So please get snapping, as it would be wonderful to have a local winner at the exhibition, displaying community life through a lens.”

The competition is open until 2 April 2020. Further information on the competition including the rules can be found at:

• manchestercommunitycentral.org/age-proud-photography-competition