Waterford’s St. Joseph’s House has won the Safety and Security Award at the 2025 National Age Friendly Awards. The project transformed a former convent into modern, age friendly homes.
The award highlights how local communities can create safer and more inclusive places for older people.
Celebrating Local Innovation
The Age Friendly Awards took place in Galway, hosted by Age Friendly Ireland and presented by RTÉ’s Marty Whelan. They celebrate the best projects that make Ireland a great place to grow older.
Waterford’s winning project stood out for its creative approach and strong focus on community safety. It was recognised as a model that could inspire other towns across Ireland.
A Win for Waterford’s Community Spirit
Seán McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council, said the project showed what collaboration can achieve.
“This initiative is a wonderful example of how creative, local partnerships can make real change. It improves lives and shows how age friendly design works in practice.”
He added that Waterford hopes to see similar projects develop in other communities.
National Recognition for Inclusion and Safety
The awards honoured projects from all over Ireland. Each focused on improving life for older people through better housing, transport, communication, or community support.
This year’s Special Recognition Award went to Iarnród Éireann for its work on the Age Friendly Train Stations Programme.
Minister of State for Older People and Housing, Kieran O’Donnell TD, praised the winners.
“These awards celebrate the work happening every day in our communities. Each project helps to make Ireland more inclusive for everyone.”
Commitment to a Friendly Future
The National Age Friendly Awards show how cities like Waterford lead by example. Local leadership, creative planning, and community teamwork continue to make Waterford a better place to live for people of all ages.
The success of St. Joseph’s House proves that when local and national partners work together, lasting change follows.
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