Improving the lives of older people is the focus of a series of ‘community conversations’ which have been held locally to develop ‘good neighbourhoods for ageing well’.
The conversations sought the views of those aged over 65 years, carers of older people, community organisations and local residents who support older people. The information received during the sessions will be used to develop five local area action plans focussing on older people.
The event in Kilkeel Leisure Centrexa0was initiated by the Southern Strategic Health Improvement Partnership (SSHIP) and funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA). The event was coordinated by the local council.
Dr Eddie Rooney Chief Executive of the PHA, said: “It is important to establish the experiences of older people. That is why these conversations have been put in place. They will help us, along with our partner organisations and communities create better neighbourhoods for ageing well.
“The aim of the conversations is to create action plans for each of the areas to develop five ‘good neighbourhoods for ageing well’ where everyone is valued and supported in their own community, where individuals feel safe and part of the community and can reach their full potential for health and wellbeing.”
The Newry and Mourne event is one of five taking place across the southern locality, which it is hoped will lead to the development of five ‘good neighbourhoods for ageing well’ where everyone is valued and supported in their own community, where individuals feel safe and part of the community and can reach their full potential for health and wellbeing.
Mayor of Newry and Mourne Michael Ruane said: “As a Council we are committed to improving the lives of older people. This event gives older people a voice to let us know what is important to them so that we can develop an action plan which will reflect their needs.”
The SSHIP consists of representatives from the Public Health Agency, Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon, Newry and Mourne and Dungannon/South Tyrone Councils; the Southern Health and Social Care Trust; Southern Group Environmental Health Committee; Health and Social Care Board, Local Commissioning Group; and Housing Executive NI.
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