The Arts & Older People Programme aims to strengthen the voice of older people and promote positive mental health and emotional wellbeing through the arts. The proposed projects should reflect the partnership approach with the target groups they plan to engage with and have the support from them in the delivery.

To ensure a strong advocacy message there will be an opportunity to showcase the projects funded throughout the year. Applicants should endeavour to build this into their project programme and budget.

Who can apply?

  • The programme is aimed at constituted community and voluntary groups who are working at a local level to support older people and can demonstrate strong partnership working with older people groups.
  • This programme is also open to non-governmental organisations, Local Authorities and arts organisations who can clearly demonstrate partnership working.
  • We are looking for partnership or consortia-based projects. Partnerships can be led by either age sector providers, arts organisations or Local Authorities, however the consortium must be made up of appropriate representatives and demonstrate a commitment to working together. Other specialists who work with older people may also be included as named partners in the consortium.

Who Cannot Apply?

  • Individuals or sole traders
  • Broadcasters (excluding community service broadcasters)
  • Central Government Departments
  • Organisations with statutory obligations to providing services for Older People
  • Organisations in breach of any previously issued Arts Council award grant conditions.
  • Organisations who received an Arts & Older People award in 2022/23 or earlier, that is not yet complete. AN Award is not complete until we have received your End of Project Report, and any outstanding grant administrative matters are closed. You will not be eligible to apply for another Arts & Older People award where a previous award from 2022/23 or earlier has not been completed.

To apply

Read the full details of the programme, and apply online, at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland website here.