The largest celebration of older people the county has ever seen has started this month.
The Full of Life Festival is a programme of activities taking place in September and October celebrating the role older people play in our communities – with many of the events in Rother.
More than 80 free and paid-for activities for the 50-plus age group will be taking place over the next two months to mark International Older People’s Day on October 1 – the largest programme of events since the initiative was established 18 years ago.
The programme has been designed by the county council with the support of East Sussex Seniors’ Association (ESSA) to help older people in the county to make connections, understand how best to look after themselves and provide a range of activities that can boost health and well-being.
Starting this month, this year’s programme features age friendly activities ranging from nature sessions, dancing, and art workshops to film screenings, walks, and singalongs.
Events to encourage healthy ageing include weekly wellbeing talks, seated exercise sessions, and chair-based yoga.
Active Age Health MOTs for older people, which include balance and grip tests and information on how to stay active, are also available.
Some of the events have been organised by one of the senior forums that forms part of East Sussex Seniors’ Association. In addition to holding social events and offering help and advice to older people, East Sussex Seniors’ Association provides a collective voice for the over 50s across the county.
Lin Neeve, Chair of East Sussex Seniors’ Association, said: “The events on offer through the Full of Life programme are all designed to help people stay physically, emotionally and socially active as they get older, and there really is something for everyone.
“As well as joining some of the events taking place, I would encourage residents to consider getting involved in their local forum and becoming a voice for older people. By being part of a forum you can stay connected with your community, take part in social activities and learn more about health and care services.”
Activities are taking place in locations across East Sussex including Bexhill, Crowborough, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Hastings, Newhaven, Rye, Seaford, Uckfield, and Winchelsea.
For a full list of events Taking place in Rother, please visit: Full of Life events – 2025 | East Sussex County Council
Published: 9th September 2025
