The project was a direct response to a need identified by the Sub-committee on loneliness in Angus, who were seeking a community-based project to effectively engage older adults experiencing various inequalities. The goals were clear: to reduce loneliness, isolation, and address inequalities related to health, leisure access, and transport.

Without this project, many community members would remain isolated, lonely, and physically inactive, continuing to engage mostly in sedentary activities.

The project involved introducing the Weekday Wow Factor concept across 10 identified towns in Angus through public meetings and engagement sessions.

The strategy relied heavily on partnership working with existing local groups. The concept was successfully received and implemented in areas like Kirriemuir, Forfar, Arbroath, and Montrose, and led to strong partnerships with organisations like a Physiotherapy-based Fitness instructor (Birkhill/Muirhead) and Carnoustie Day Centre.

The team used occupational therapy approaches and co-design principles, including sitting with older adults individually to discuss their needs and preferences (such as daring activities like speedboat rides), ensuring the activities were meaningful and person-centred.

While the project faced challenges in some towns (like Friockheim and Edzell) due to reluctance from some community leads to engage in joint working, in areas where the concept was shared, the response was overwhelmingly positive.

Key Outcomes and Benefits:

• Motivation and Purpose: Community members immediately identified a strong personal need for the project, noting that the motivating, fail-free activities provided a sense of purpose and satisfaction that alleviated boredom.

• Social Connection: The events—such as discos and minibus adventures—created meaningful opportunities for older adults to connect, form friendships, and feel part of a vibrant community network, fostering belonging and reducing isolation.

• Health Benefits: Engagement in dance, music, and social outings encourages regular movement, emotional uplift, and improved mood. This directly supports preventative health and has the potential to reduce pressure on local GP and social care services.

• Sustainability: The project aims to establish a network of Weekday Wow Factor hubs, creating a sustainable framework for community-led change and wellbeing innovation across Angus and Tayside.