The event, themed around the environment, money matters, community safety, health, well being and diversity saw organisations such as Age Cymru, RNIB Cymru and the Pension Service offering advice and information to tenants and representatives from four local authority areas.

Alun Thomas, Head of Review, Examinations & Policy at the Older People’s Commission in Wales, opened the event, said, “Since the Commission began it’s work, older people have told us it is often difficult to obtain information about services in an accessible form that can be understood and acted upon. The Commission is therefore delighted to be involved in events such as this Older Person’s Independence Day, which helps to address gaps in this key area.”

Amanda Davies, Chief Executive, said, “When people get older it is not always easy for them to access the information they need. Older people are important to the Seren Group, so much so that earlier this year we launched ’50 and up’, a range of housing and support solutions specifically designed around older people. Building on the success of today’s event, we will continue to do all we can to help promote and maintain older people’s independence.”

The feedback from residents who attended the event was also positive with comments including: “very enjoyable” – “I had lovely time” – “great atmosphere and very interesting.”

Every three months Fairview community house will host a drop-in coffee morning for residents giving them the opportunity to get to know their Councillor, local Police Officers and their local Community Development Officer. Residents will be able to report problems and discuss any issues that are causing concern in their local community.

Kate Aspinwall, Community Development Officer at Charter said “This is a great way to bring together three organisations under one roof. It’s a one stop shop for Fairview residents who can come along to air their concerns about all sorts of issues.”

Advice and information will be on hand about community safety, crime, community and tenancy issues, local services and how to tackle money and debt advice. Free refreshments are available and there are plenty of activities to entertain the children.

Community Drop-In sessions will be held at Fairview Community House every 3 months between 10am and 12noon, on the following dates:

• 15th July
• 14th October
• 16th December

Councillor David Poole added “The drop in will allow organisations, communities and individuals to work more closely together at a local level. Often, it is the residents themselves who come up with the solutions to their problems, whilst others simply want reassurance that things are being done. I urge residents to come along, have a cup of tea and share their concerns, no matter how great or small.”

PC Bethan Sturgess of the Neighbourhood Policing Team, said “If anyone has any local community issues, then they are welcome to come along and have a chat with us over a cup of tea or coffee. We also have a range of crime prevention advice and products to hand out to local residents. We are looking forward to seeing them there”.