Older People’s Conference discusses ‘What Matters To You?’
Over 120 older people took part in a conference this week at Dumfries House aimed at finding out ‘What Matters To You?’
Guests enjoyed getting to know each other and listening to guest speakers, East Ayrshire Council Chief Executive Eddie Fraser and Councillor Jim McMahon. Jim Slinger spoke about volunteering as a Chairperson for Hurlford Age Concern and the great work that the group does, while Ian McWhirter told of his many hours of volunteering at Afton Court in New Cumnock and the impact this has made on those he volunteers with, as well as the benefits he has gained from this personally.
Table top discussions were then held about what matters to our older population in terms of community, health and social lives. Important discussions also took place about how to ensure that older people continue to have a voice and the chance to influence decisions made by authorities and governing bodies about the services and support that is available to them.
The day was rounded off with a fantastic performance from Elvis (John Reid) and everyone enjoyed the music and dancing.
Councillor Jim McMahon, Spokesperson for Housing, Transport and Communities, said: “As well as being a great day out, this conference gives our older people the opportunity to talk about and tell us what’s really important to them. All of the services and groups who were there on the day will have taken away valuable information that will help them when they’re planning and delivering services for our older population in the future. Thanks to everyone who took part.”
Guests on the day came from care homes, supported accommodation, Vibrant Communities, Age Concern, East Ayrshire Advocacy Services, Busy Bees Coalfield Community Transport, Ayrshire Independent Living Network, Netherthird and Craigens Thursday Group, Sensory Impairment Support Group, RNIB, Carers Centre, CVO and East Ayrshire Council.
The conference was organised by East Ayrshire Vibrant Communities and supported and guided by East Ayrshire Advocacy Services, Coalfield Community Buses, Age Concern and representatives from older people’s services and volunteering.