About

History

NET started life in 1995 as a group set up by Churches Together in Garforth (CTIG) when the local clergy realised the elderly needed more than a visiting team, but a meeting place to reduce isolation, improve health and improve social contact for older people in the community. The charity was formed in 2001and set up an office at 27 Main Street Garforth. As client numbers increased larger premises were required and space at 62c Main street became available. We moved in which gave us the ability to hold events for larger numbers. As client numbers increased quite rapidly we soon outgrew the premises. Local councillors were keen for us to move into a vacant building in Dover Street. The council owned building had stood empty for some years having been designed as an older peoples day centre. NET took on the lease and updated the facilities. Initial thoughts that it was too big soon proved to be unfounded as client number increased and events multiplied. Leeds City Council is one of a few in the country who have a neighbourhood network scheme to support older members of the community. NET is one of its members. It can seem a bit confusing as NET covers part, or all of some postcode areas which include Wakefield, covers several council wards and is included in two outer Leeds committee groups. Go to https://www.opforum.org.uk/nns to see how the city is divided up / the area NET Covers.

Funding

We receive some grants and funding from LCC most of which have to be applied for. Some local councillors do assist from their local funds. Many local businesses, large and small supply goods and assistance with our funding. Many local residents also help top up our funds on a regular or one off basis. Every donation no matter what size is greatly appreciated. Thank You All. We really appreciate cards, calls and E Mails.

Activity dates and locations may vary

now due to financial constraints. Please

refer to newsletter or If you are

interested in attending any event please

contact a member of staff.

Support

The support covers advice, assistance, social activities, befriending, one to one support, friendship groups, events, outings, newsletters, educational and leisure activities. Always with the emphasis on fun and enjoyment for all. Our clients are very active participants in our work. They contribute ideas, skills, talents, time, goods and monetary donations, as well as constant encouragement and feedback. Our volunteer team, which includes our trustees, give a generous level of commitment and hands on service to the organisation, without which many of our activities could not run. Regular coffee mornings provided a great meeting place to make and be with friends. Our friendship groups allow you to make friends and enjoy a varied programme of social activities and speakers at a group closest to you. We provide free confidential information and advice on a range of benefits, entitlements, services and facilities for older people.

Educational & Leisure Activities

Educational and Leisure activities are available throughout the week, giving you a chance to brush up on your skills, keep healthy and to enjoy life. A range of activities available weekday mornings and afternoons including: NET Silver Surfers (Computer skills for anyone over 60) Extend - Chair based exercise Cinema Club Afternoon Tea and Singalong Walking your way to Health Singing for pleasure Village information sessions Coffee Mornings Knit and Natter Yoga - Chair based Wii Fit Pilates - Chair based Men’s Group