Age Friendly Ireland is delighted to confirm that the National Age Friendly Recognition and The application deadline for the 2026 National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards has been extended to Friday, 5 June, and Age Friendly Ireland is encouraging applications from projects that help older people feel safe and secure at home and in their communities.

Applicants can apply here: https://agefriendlyireland.ie/national-age-friendly-recognition-and-achievement-awards/current-year/

Coordinated by Age Friendly Ireland, the awards recognise organisations, agencies, community groups, businesses and members of the public who are delivering projects that make Ireland a better place to grow older.

Now in their tenth year, the awards celebrate projects and initiatives that make a real difference to the lives of older people, while also showcasing ideas that can be replicated in communities, services and businesses across the country.

Feeling safe at home and when out and about is central to ageing well. The Safety & Security Award recognises community-based responses that support older people’s safety, confidence and independence.

This may include partnerships between Local Authorities, An Garda Síochána, fire services, community safety groups, health services, emergency planning teams or local volunteers. Age Friendly Ireland is keen to hear from projects that help older people know what supports are available, what to do when they need help, and how to remain safe, connected and supported in their own communities.

The awards are open to anyone delivering a project that benefits older people. Applicants do not need to be formally connected to the Age Friendly Programme to enter.

Catherine McGuigan, Chief Officer, Age Friendly Ireland said: “The National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards shine a light on projects that make a real difference in the lives of older people, while showcasing initiatives that others can learn from and replicate.”

“We are particularly encouraging applications this year from those working in safety and security. Feeling safe at home and in the wider community has a direct impact on confidence, independence and wellbeing, and we know there are strong community-based projects across Ireland that deserve recognition.”

Age Friendly Ireland is the national organisation implementing the Government’s vision of an Age Friendly Ireland, working across Local Authorities and with partners nationwide to support communities that are inclusive, accessible and responsive to the needs of an ageing population.

Awards Details

• This year’s awards ceremony will be hosted by Limerick City and County Council at The Limerick Strand Hotel on Thursday, 8 October 2026.

• Applications close on Friday, 5 June.

Applicants can apply here: https://agefriendlyireland.ie/national-age-friendly-recognition-and-achievement-awards/current-year/

For more information please visit our website:

National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards