Bognor Regis offers a variety of opportunities for more mature residents, focusing on social engagement, continued learning, maintaining an active lifestyle, and contributing to the community. Here's a breakdown:

1. Social and Community Engagement:

• Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (The Laburnum Centre): This is a fantastic resource. The Laburnum Centre in Bognor Regis is designed with older people in mind. They offer:
  • Activities and events: A range of friendly meet-ups and fun sessions promoting social connections, physical, and mental wellbeing. This can include fitness classes (Yoga, Pilates, Dance, Tai Chi, Circuits Training, Chair Based Exercise, Strength & Balance Classes), a cafe, and computer access.
  • Information & Advice: Free and confidential service for people over 50, their families, and carers.
  • Dementia Support & Advice: Services to help people live well with dementia.
  • Community Agents: Work to connect isolated older people with activities and services.
• U3A (University of the Third Age) - Bognor Regis u3a & Arun West u3a: These organizations are specifically for retired and semi-retired individuals. They offer a wide range of learning, creative, and leisure groups, providing excellent opportunities to:
  • Develop and share interests: With nearly 50 activity and interest groups ranging from current affairs to walking for health, arts, music, discussions, games, and languages, there's something for everyone.
  • Make new friends: Monthly meetings with speakers and coffee mornings encourage social interaction.
  • Share expertise: Members are encouraged to form activity groups and share their knowledge and passion.
• West Sussex Mind (for Older People 65+): They support older people in Bognor and surrounding areas who are feeling low, have depression, anxiety, or other mental health needs, especially if they are isolated. They offer:
  • One-to-one support (in-person, phone, online).
  • Social activities: arts and crafts, gentle walks, picnics, quizzes, bingo, and other games.
  • Mindfulness and mental well-being sessions.
  • A special activity group called 'Take a break together' for carers and those they care for.
• Carers Support West Sussex (Arun District): They offer information, guidance, and support for carers, including:
  • Bognor Regis 'Open to All' Carer Group: A friendly face-to-face group for carers to discuss their caring role.
  • Wellbeing workers and a directory of partner organizations for additional support.
• Community Centres: Check local community centers like Bersted Park Community Centre for various local activities and classes.

2. Staying Active:

• The Laburnum Centre (Age UK): As mentioned, their gym is specifically designed for older adults (50+, 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond) with adjustable and wheelchair-accessible equipment. They also offer a wide range of fitness classes, including chair-based exercise and strength & balance.
• Freedom Leisure Centres: Bersted Park Community Centre, managed by Freedom Leisure, aims to "improve lives through leisure" and offers fitness classes and indoor sports.
• Walking Groups: Many U3A groups and other local community initiatives will have walking groups, often catering to different fitness levels.

3. Learning and Skill Development:

• U3A: As a core part of their mission, U3A groups offer a vast array of learning opportunities across diverse subjects.
• West Sussex Adult Learning Service: While some listed courses might be family-focused, the Adult Learning Service generally provides courses in maths, English, job skills, digital skills, and ESOL. Contact Chichester College or other local colleges mentioned for their adult and community learning classes.
• The Regis School: Also mentions adult education, historically via Aspire Sussex (which has now closed, so direct inquiry with the school for current offerings would be best).

4. Volunteering Opportunities:

• Volunteer Now! (Arun and Chichester): This organization helps individuals find volunteer opportunities and supports organizations in recruiting volunteers. They are a great first point of contact for finding a suitable role.
• St Wilfrid's Hospice: Actively recruits volunteers for various roles at the Hospice, in their charity shops, and within local fundraising groups. They are open to discussing opportunities and assisting with applications.
• Charity Shops: Many charity shops in Bognor Regis (e.g., Age UK, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK) rely heavily on volunteers for retail, sorting donations, and customer service.
• Local Community Groups/Events: Keep an eye out for local festivals, clean-up days, or community projects that often seek volunteer support.

5. Part-Time Employment:

Many "senior" roles (referring to experience rather than age) are advertised, but there are also opportunities well-suited to older adults looking for part-time work or flexibility:

• Care Assistant/Support Worker: There's a significant demand for compassionate individuals in home care. Companies like Right at Home, Bluebird Care, Vitale Care, and Caremark Arun frequently advertise part-time roles with flexible hours, good rates, and paid mileage. No prior experience is often needed as training is provided.
• Retail: Charity shops (like Age UK) and other local businesses may offer part-time retail assistant roles.
• Hospitality: Roles in hotels, restaurants, or leisure facilities (e.g., at Butlin's Bognor Regis) might offer part-time hours, such as in catering or guest services.
• Driving/Logistics: For those with appropriate licenses, part-time driving roles (e.g., Class 1 HGV for transport) can be available.
• Light Office/Admin Work: Some smaller businesses or community organizations might seek part-time administrative support.

Where to Look:

• Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove: Their website and The Laburnum Centre.
• U3A Websites: Search for "Bognor Regis u3a" and "Arun West u3a."
• Volunteer Now! (VAAC): Their website or contact details.
• Job Search Engines: Indeed UK, Reed.co.uk, Jooble, and specialized care job sites (like homecare.co.uk) for part-time work. Filter by "part-time" or "senior" (in the sense of experience).
• Local Advertisements: Check notice boards in community centers, libraries, and local shops.
• Direct Approach: If there's a specific type of local business you'd like to work for or volunteer with, don't hesitate to contact them directly.

Bognor Regis seems to be a good place for more mature residents to stay engaged, active, and contribute, with a strong network of support and community groups.