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A new initiative to make Bournemouth town centre more welcoming to older people was launched this week, alongside a microgrant scheme to help businesses make age-friendly improvements.
Spearheaded by Bournemouth Town Centre BID, in partnership with BCP Council and the Centre for Ageing Better, this collaborative project comprises a range of initiatives, including a business charter, staff training, an additional seating scheme, and grant funding, all aimed at improving the experience of over-55s in the town centre.
Speaking following the launch event, held on Wednesday 23 April at Patch, the co-working space inside Bobby’s in Bournemouth, Paul Kinvig, Chief Operating Officer of Bournemouth Town Centre BID said:
“This initiative is about recognising the needs of a growing part of our community and responding in practical ways. We want the town centre to work well for everyone, including older residents and visitors.”
Among the announcements made at Wednesday’s launch event was the launch of a new microgrant scheme. Funded by the Centre for Ageing Better, the scheme enables levy-paying businesses within the Bournemouth Town Centre BID area to apply for grants between £150 and £500 to fund changes that benefit older customers – such as improving access, updating signage and communication materials, or running intergenerational events.
Explains Natalie Turner, Director of the Centre for Ageing Better:
“Small, simple changes can have a big impact — whether that’s adding a chair by the counter, updating your website fonts, or creating a warmer welcome. We’re encouraging businesses to think creatively. And with this funding available, there’s every reason to act now.”
The application window opened on Wednesday, April 23, and will close on Friday May 23. Up to 20 businesses will be awarded funding, which will be distributed in July and must be spent by the end of October 2025.
But even before this microgrant scheme takes effect, visitors to Bournemouth Town Centre will notice some immediate changes with the launch of the AgeFriendly Bournemouth Take A Seat Campaign.
Bournemouth Town Centre BID has funded three Chesterfield-style chairs, being placed in participating businesses in the coming weeks to create welcoming resting spots for older visitors – with further locations to follow.
This comes alongside the AgeFriendly Bournemouth Charter, which invites businesses to commit to supporting their older customers through an awareness of their needs and by making simple accommodations. Bournemouth Town Centre BID is also offering free age-friendly customer service training for BID levy payers, providing practical advice for serving older people more confidently and effectively.
Both are already being adopted by town centre businesses, added Paul Kinvig:
“This isn’t just about accessibility — it’s about creating a warm welcome by actively considering the comfort and wellbeing of older customers – creating spaces where everyone feels they belong.
“We’re inviting local businesses to be part of this journey, and the enthusiasm we’ve already seen is hugely encouraging.”
Bournemouth Town Centre BID board member Rachel Woodward-Carrick, who has helped to drive the AgeFriendly Bournemouth Initiative, added:
“Older customers are vital and valuable, but many face barriers in visiting our Town Centre – from limited seating to inaccessible shop fronts. This initiative is about removing those barriers and building a town centre that works better for everyone.”
The programme has also emerged from BCP Council’s commitment to Age Friendly Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole – part of the Centre for Ageing Better’s UK Network of Age Friendly Communities. The council is playing an active role ensuring the area meets the real needs of older residents and visitors.
Heather Olive, Age Friendly Communities Coordinator at BCP Council:
“This project is a shining example of collaborative action. We’re excited to be engaging with our town centre businesses, working closely with the Bournemouth Town Centre BID and the Centre for Ageing Better, to make Bournemouth town centre a place where older people feel more confident, comfortable and included. It’s about creating a town centre that works for everyone.”
Businesses interested in applying for a microgrant can email localities@ageing-better.org.uk for the application form and further information.
