Volunteers brave Europa Hotel abseil to raise vital funds for older people across Mid and East Antrim

Ten brave volunteers stepped over the edge of one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable buildings at the weekend, taking on a dramatic abseil down Belfast’s Europa Hotel to raise vital funds for older people across Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne.

The fundraising challenge, held on Sunday, 7 June, saw participants descend the side of the iconic city-centre hotel in support of Agewell, helping to generate much-needed income for services that tackle loneliness, improve wellbeing and provide practical support to older people throughout the community.

Friends, family members and supporters gathered to cheer on the volunteers as they completed the exhilarating descent, with each participant helping to shine a spotlight on the charity’s work and the growing need for support services for older residents.

Funds will support frontline community services

Money raised through the event will help Agewell continue delivering a range of programmes designed to improve quality of life for older people across Mid and East Antrim.

The charity provides practical assistance and social support aimed at reducing isolation, promoting independence and ensuring older people can access help when they need it most.

Among the initiatives supported through fundraising are Agewell’s befriending service and its scam prevention work, both of which play an important role in protecting and supporting vulnerable members of the community.

Charity praises volunteers and supporters

Jenny Marshall of Agewell paid tribute to everyone who took part in the challenge and those who contributed through donations and support.

She said:

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in this fantastic fundraising challenge. Their commitment and enthusiasm will help us continue providing essential services that make a real difference to older people’s lives.

“Fundraising is vital to ensure important initiatives such as our scam prevention work and befriending service continue to exist and support those who rely on them.

“We would like to thank everyone who participated, donated and supported the event.”

Community effort helps keep services running

The Europa Hotel abseil was not only a test of courage for the volunteers involved but also a reminder of the important role community fundraising plays in sustaining local charitable services.

As demand for support continues, events such as this help ensure Agewell can continue reaching older people across Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne with services that reduce isolation, promote wellbeing and provide reassurance to those who may otherwise struggle without support.

Agewell has extended its sincere thanks to all volunteers, donors and supporters who helped make the event a success and contribute towards the charity’s ongoing work in communities across the borough.