New Initiative Supports Older People in Dungannon
A newly formed Dungannon Interagency Working Group for Older People is holding a series of ten Check it Out information roadshows starting on Wednesday 22nd April 2009.
These free events will provide valuable information to older people about benefit entitlements, health, security, energy efficiency, transport, care and other local services. The information is designed to help and support older people to retain their independence.
There are more than 8,000 people over the age of 60 in the Dungannon area. Older people are being hit hard by recent increases to the cost of living as a higher proportion of their money goes on heating and food. Research shows that older people are still not claiming the benefits they are entitled to and many do not know who to contact for help and advice.
The aim of the Check it Out roadshow is to bring services to rural communities and reach older people who may not be aware of the services available to them.
“These one-off events have a vital role to play in connecting older people with the services provided by participating agencies” said Hilary Doherty from A2B: Access to Benefits.
“This joint roadshow is a practical way for groups to really impact on, and make a difference to older people. We totally support the work of the Interagency Working Group and hope that this will be the first of many programmes of engagement” stated Elaine Simpson - Age Concern NI.
“These roadshows will help provide those that live in the rural area of the district vital information and advice on a range of relevant issues thus ensuring that the community are safer and more importantly feel safer in their community” stated Paul Wilson - Community Safety, Dungannon PSNI, F District.
Dates and venues
Augher/Clogher
Wednesday 13 May 2009, St McCartan’s Youth Centre, Dunroe Road, Augher
Fivemiletown
Tuesday 9 June 2009, Wesleyan Hall, Fivemiletown
Dungannon
Wednesday 16 September 2009, Ballysaggart Business Complex, Ballygawley Road, Dungannon
Coalisland (west)
Monday 19 October 2009, Cornmill, Lineside, Coalisland
Galbally/killeshill
Thursday 19 November 2009, Killeshill Community Centre
Aughnacloy
Wednesday 9 December 2009, McCreedy Mill, Aughnacloy
Killyman/Moy
Wednesday 20 January 2010, Killyman Church of Ireland Church Hall, Killyman
Ballygawley
Wednesday 17 February 2010, Smith Memorial Hall, Church Street, Ballygawley
Coalisland (south)
Tuesday 9 March 2010, Clonoe Community Centre, 93 Washingbay Road, Coalisland
We would prefer you book a place to facilitate arrangements, as there are free refreshments at all the events. There will be room for around 70 attendees on each date so book now to avoid disappointment. Free Transport can be provided for those who need it.
To register for your place, please contact Steven McElhatten (Good Morning Scheme) on 028 8772 9690.
If any organisation wishes to find out more about the Interagency Working Group please contact Elaine Simpson on 07912 046 534.