Ambition for Ageing’s new report, Ageing in Place for Minority Ethnic communities explores the importance of social infrastructure, such as shops, community centres, and green spaces, for older members of minority ethnic communities.
It is important for older people with a shared cultural identity to have places where they can meet to maintain their sense of identity and relationships with others who share some form of commonality. These shared spaces allow for informal social connections, which are very important for people to feel a sense of connection to the neighbourhoods in which they live.
As lockdown restrictions begin to lift, it is important that the planning and re-design of public and shared spaces are invested in and supported to ensure there is a social space for local people.
The research also highlights the importance of local voluntary organisations working with minority ethnic groups. Specialist funding and support is vital for these organisations to continue their work within communities. Given the impact of COVID-19 on minority ethnic groups, these organisations need to be engaged in the rebuilding of communities.
To read the report click here