Extra Time empowers older adults

Extra Time was established in the summer of 2023 to provide support, training and renewed work opportunities for older people.

Since its launch, the organisation has supported well over sixty individuals through a combination of group courses and one-to-one guidance.  

Ed Kelly, Chair of Extra Time, explains: “When we set up Extra Time, we knew that older people still have so much to offer their communities - whether through paid work or volunteering. Our mission has always been to help people recognise their value and achieve their full potential.”  

The impact of the programme has been significant. Forty per cent of participants have gone on to secure paid employment, while the vast majority report a marked improvement in their mental wellbeing after working with Extra Time.  

Mary Jessop, an Extra Time Director, adds: “We want to reignite older people’s belief in themselves and help them recognise the many transferable skills they already have. Once people realise how capable they are, their confidence grows - and that’s when they really begin to move forward.”  

Extra Time is distinctive in its leadership. Four of its five directors are aged over 68, ensuring that participants are supported by people who truly understand the challenges they face later in life. The fifth director, Lauren Moore, is in her thirties and works full time as a business manager, bringing both a younger-generation perspective and up-to-date knowledge of workplace technologies and practices.  

Extra Time has recently completed delivery of one of its latest courses. Suzanne, a participant, says: “Extra Time helped me so much. I would strongly recommend it to other older people. Through the course, I realised I could succeed in a completely different type of work. I gained the confidence to apply for new roles and was successful in securing a job that fits my life as an older person. I am so happy.”  

Courses are delivered at the Hattersley Hub, thanks to the support of Onward Housing, and are attended by older people from across Tameside and the Glossop area. Director Jean Shanks comments: “Our groups are incredibly diverse - women and men from all walks of life, including retired teachers, builders, electricians, long-distance lorry drivers, cleaners and many more. It’s a wonderfully varied mix of experiences and backgrounds.”  

Dave, who attended the most recent course, shared: “Mary and the team listened to me, and that was so important. I could spend time discussing where I was in my life and what my plans were, it’s a really a supportive environment.”  

Alongside group courses, Extra Time also offers individual support. Director Steve Lafferty provides tailored help with CVs and job applications, and the organisation can also supply digital equipment and free data to those affected by cost-of-living pressures.  

Extra Time’s next course begins in February 2026 and runs once a week for two hours. To find out more or to register interest, contact Ed on 07503 136946 or email steve@extratime.org.uk  

Further information is available at: www.extratime.org.uk