Dunboyne Friends of The Elderly, Ireland

10/06/2026

26/04/2026

This afternoon, we came together to celebrate a very special milestone — 10 years of the wonderful work of the Dunboyne Friends of the Elderly.

Over the past decade, this group has brought friendship, kindness, companionship, and support to so many people in our community. What began as a simple idea — to make sure older members of our community feel connected and valued — has grown into something truly meaningful.

Ten years of visits, phone calls, outings, cups of tea, listening ears, laughter, and care. Ten years of volunteers giving their time so generously. Ten years of reminding people that they are not forgotten, that they matter, and that community is strongest when we look after one another.

This afternoon is not just about marking the passing of time — it is about recognising the impact that this organisation has had on the lives of so many families, neighbours, and friends here in Dunboyne.

A special word of thanks must go to Bridie Thornton. Bridie, your dedication, warmth, and commitment have been at the heart of this group. Your care for others and your willingness to give your time so selflessly have made a lasting difference to many people. You are a true stalwart of this group.

We would also like to give special recognition to Emer Slator. Emer, your hard work, support, and kindness have helped make this organisation what it is today. Your contribution over the years has been deeply appreciated by everyone involved.

We were delighted to welcome Tom Horan from Head Office in Bolton Street, and we thank him for his support and presence here today.
A sincere thank you as well to Deirdre Davis for being our MC this afternoon and helping guide us through this special celebration.
A special thank you also to Brush Shields and Big Al for their contribution in helping make this afternoon so memorable.

To all the volunteers, supporters, families, and friends who have played a part in these ten years — thank you. You have built something truly special. You have created connections, lifted spirits, and strengthened the sense of community that makes Dunboyne such a wonderful place.

As we celebrate this afternoon, let us also look forward to the future — to many more years of friendship, compassion, and support.

Congratulations on 10 incredible years, and thank you all for making such a positive difference.

12/04/2026

Please support and pass the word on

12/04/2026

We have been asked to share the following post from the as April is Bowel Cancer Awareness month.

BowelScreen is for everyone aged 57 to 71.
It’s for people who have no symptoms of bowel cancer.
It’s a free test that you do yourself at home.
Find out more at hse.ie/bowelscreen

02/04/2026

🥳

26/03/2026

🛑 Support fair access to the shingles vaccine for adults aged 65+
🛑 Sign the shingles vaccine petition!

Active Retirement Ireland has launched a petition calling on the government to include shingles vaccination for adults aged 65 and older in the 2026 National Immunisation Programme — free of charge at the point of delivery.

Find out more and sign the petition at https://activeirl.ie/shingles-vaccine-petition/

14/03/2026

RIP

It is with great sadness that we at Friends of the Elderly mark the passing of our dear friend and Honorary Ambassador, Ronnie Delany.

Ronnie was not only one of Ireland’s greatest sporting legends, remembered for his extraordinary victory at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, but also a man of deep generosity, compassion and humility. For many years, he gave his time and voice to support the work of Friends of the Elderly, helping shine a light on the issue of loneliness and isolation among older people in Ireland.

As Honorary Ambassador, Ronnie believed deeply in the importance of connection, dignity and respect for older generations. He regularly spoke about the value of friendship and community, and how small acts of kindness can make a profound difference in the lives of those who may feel alone.

In an interview with the Irish Independent and Evening Herald in 2014, announcing his Ambassador role with Friends of the Elderly Ronnie, spoke passionately about the charity’s mission. Reflecting on the work of Friends of the Elderly, he noted that many older people can feel forgotten by society and emphasised that simple companionship and human connection can restore a sense of belonging and dignity.

Ronnie often reminded people that growing older should never mean becoming invisible. He praised the volunteers and supporters of Friends of the Elderly for ensuring that older people across Ireland remain connected to their communities and surrounded by friendship.

Throughout his life, Ronnie carried his Olympic legacy with grace, but he also carried something equally powerful a genuine concern for others. His support helped amplify our message and encouraged countless people to recognise the importance of reaching out to older members of our communities.

At Friends of the Elderly, we were deeply honoured to have Ronnie as part of our family. His kindness, encouragement and unwavering belief in the value of friendship will remain an enduring part of our story.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Ronnie’s family, friends and all who knew and admired him.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Ronnie Delany’s legacy will live on not only in the history of Irish sport, but also in the hearts of everyone at Friends of the Elderly for the friendships he helped foster and the lives he helped brighten through his support of older people across Ireland.

04/03/2026

🌸 A Heartfelt Thank You from Dunboyne Friends of the Elderly
Dunboyne College of Further Education

What a truly wonderful day we had! We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who made our recent visit such a special and memorable occasion.

A special word of thanks to Kathleen (who kindly invited us and is pictured top left), along with Clare, for organising such a fantastic event with their students. Your planning and hospitality were so appreciated.

Thank you to Susan for the lively music and great fun with Music Bingo — it was a real highlight of the afternoon! 🎶

We are also so grateful to Nicola, who oversaw the beautiful nail treatments, and to the hair and beauty students who treated our members with such care and professionalism. The afternoon tea was simply beautiful — such a treat for everyone who attended.

It was a wonderful showcase of the students’ talents across hair, beauty, music, and care. The student carers were attentive, kind, and so helpful throughout the day — a credit to their tutors and college.

The venue was perfect! Everyone left feeling pampered, uplifted, and thoroughly entertained.

A very special thank you to Eoin Peacock, Buses, for kindly providing transport for our group. Your support made the day possible and is very much appreciated. 🚌

Thank you again to everyone involved for your warmth, generosity, and community spirit. It truly meant so much to our members.

With gratitude,
Dunboyne Friends of the Elderly 💛