The Women of New Ground : Our Later Years - Shared Wisdom on Aging Powerfully Together

About the Event & Book

"We do not turn into different people in our older age. We become versions of ourselves, shaped by our inevitable mistakes, golden moments, terrible losses and abundant blessings."

Nestled in High Barnet, North London, New Ground is a groundbreaking co-housing community created by twenty-six pioneering older women who worked tirelessly over a decade to redefine what growing older can look like. Featured widely across national media—including *The Sunday Times*—New Ground offers a unique model that allows residents to stay independent, supportive, and in charge of their own futures.

Part manifesto and part collection of extraordinary personal stories, this book captures the energy, determination, and practical wisdom that built this world-famous community.

During this engaging evening at Our Bookshop, Rachel Douglas will share:

* **Building a Vision:** The decade-long journey, triumphs, and practical hurdles of creating Britain's first senior co-housing community.
* **A Blueprint for Ageing Well:** Practical tips, truths, and wisdom to help make the later chapters of life as rewarding and vibrant as any other.
* **Community & Independence:** How intentional living can combat isolation, foster deep friendships, and challenge modern ageist stereotypes.

About Rachel Douglas

Rachel Douglas is a co-founder, key team member, and resident of the New Ground co-housing initiative. Having played a central role in getting the pioneering scheme off the ground and built from scratch, she is co-author of the book documenting its creation. A passionate and experienced speaker on co-housing, female empowerment, and positive ageing, Rachel has shared the New Ground story across national media and cultural institutions nationwide.