The government has earmarked £1m for a scheme that aims to empower older people to keep physically active.

Community groups in 30 areas across the UK can now bid for money through the Active at 60 initiative, designed to help older people who are at risk of loneliness and social isolation to 'make the most of their later lives'.

The coalition government is providing £1m to fund the project, which will launch in January 2011.

Minister for pensions, Steve Webb said: "We hope Active at 60 will make a real difference to the quality of life of those approaching retirement or who have just retired, by improving their wellbeing and preventing the risk of social isolation as they grow older."

Each local community organisation within the selected areas will be expected to recruit at least one Active at 60 community agent who will volunteer their time to help motivate, encourage and organise people within their own communities to become more active, physically, socially and mentally.

The Department for Work and Pensions is working in partnership with the Community Development Foundation who will distribute the funds.