Localisation

How HelpAge supports local leadership

HelpAge is changing how it works around the world – placing local leadership and partner-led programming at the heart of our approach.

Across different countries, we are finding new ways to bring this to life.

For years, HelpAge worked through 11 country offices. Today, that model is evolving.

In some contexts, former HelpAge country offices are transitioning to become independent national organisations – members of the HelpAge global network.

In others, local networks and partners are taking the lead in continuing this work and developing programmes that respond to the needs of older people.

Explore how our former country offices have transitioned, and the work they are now leading as independent members of the HelpAge global network.

AGE Myanmar

Fully independent national organisation with extensive humanitarian and development expertise

HelpAge International and CBM Global announce a new partnership

HelpAge Advocacy Network Uganda (HANU)

Independent network of eight Ugandan organisations

Network of HelpAge Partners in Bangladesh (NHPB)

Coalition of five well-established organisations taking forward the ageing agenda

Amel Ageing Unit, Lebanon

A major step forward in addressing the long-overlooked needs of older people in the country

HelpAge Tanzania

Independent and autonomous national organisation working for older people and people with disabilities

FAID, Pakistan

Leading national organisation working on ageing and inclusive development

From HelpAge offices to local leadership

The map shows where HelpAge offices have transitioned – or are in the process of transitioning – into locally led models.

Want to know more?

Localisation at the heart of change
David Boaz, HelpAge’s Head of Localisation, reflects on the organisation’s journey so far

Our commitment to localisation
How HelpAge defines localisation, why it matters, and the changes underway across the organisation.

Partner-led programming
How programmes are being designed and delivered by local partners – grounded in local priorities, knowledge and leadership.

Locally-led development position paper
A summary of HelpAge’s vision, principles and practical steps towards locally led development – including country examples and learning.

Localisation at the Heart of Change: How HelpAge is Shifting Power for Greater Impact

David Boaz, HelpAge’s Head of Localisation, reflects on the organisation’s localisation journey so far and the lessons learned.

Local Leadership in Action: AGE Myanmar’s Journey Through Crisis and Localisation

AGE Myanmar completed its transition into a fully independent national organisation in 2023. This shift marked a turning point in how older people in Myanmar could be supported.

Building a brighter future for older people in Uganda

In 2023, eight organisations came together to create HelpAge Advocacy Network Uganda (HANU). Today, just two years later, HANU is already changing lives, ensuring that older people across the country live with dignity, respect, and opportunities.

Listening, learning, and honouring the strength of older people: a visit to Meshmesh, Lebanon

A visit to Meshmesh in Lebanon highlights the power of local care that uplifts, connects, and respects older people.

A new chapter for older people in Lebanon: Amel launches dedicated ageing unit

Amel and HelpAge have launched an Ageing Unit in Lebanon to promote the rights and wellbeing of older people through advocacy, training, and community engagement.

HelpAge Tanzania: one year of impact and transformation

One year on, HelpAge Tanzania is changing the story on ageing - from overlooked to empowered, from policy to impact, and from voices unheard to voices leading.

Supporting older people in the aftermath of the Myanmar earthquake

HelpAge International and our local network member AGE Myanmar are acting swiftly to ensure older people are not left behind.

A new chapter: localising for impact in Pakistan

As part of HelpAge International’s ambitious localisation agenda, the Foundation for Ageing and Inclusive Development (FAID) will take forward the ageing agenda with older people in Pakistan.

A new dawn for the care of older people in Uganda

12 September marks the launch of the HelpAge Advocacy Network Uganda (HANU), an independent network of eight Ugandan organisations committed to promoting the rights and wellbeing of older people in Uganda.

Driving change for older people in Bangladesh

1 September 2024 marks the launch of the Network of HelpAge Partners in Bangladesh (NHPB).

Navigating Change: HelpAge Tanzania’s Journey to Localisation

1 April 2024 marks the launch of HelpAge Tanzania, an independent and autonomous national organisation working for the rights and wellbeing of older people and people with disabilities in Tanzania.