Social programs planned for older people

Social programs for older people, particularly those isolated at home, are to be implemented by the Premier's Department's Peninsula project manager Ms Julie Parsons.

Ms Parsons made the announcement at a meeting of the Woy Woy Older Women's Network last week at Woy Woy Leagues Club.

She said that she had been given suggestions for a network of support to bring isolated people together with others through "a cuppa and chat network".

Other suggestions included a social expo for older people and the involvement of local business to provide social opportunities.

Ms Parsons spoke to the group about the Peninsula Project and her role on the Peninsula.

She spoke about her experience in Western Australia working for the Local Government Association on road safety issues and her experiences in community development.

Ms Parsons cited local programs such as Planet Youth and a partnership between young people and the elderly for computer training as well as mentoring as models for programs she would like to implement on the Peninsula to promote mixing between generations.

She said she had also been given a suggestion for a quiz night between older and younger people.

Other suggestions that came up at the meeting included a penpal system for isolated elderly people, a broadsheet with community contact numbers and champion speakers to promote communication between community groups.

Ms Parsons asked for ideas from members of the Older Women's Network.

Suggestions put to Ms Parsons covered issues including transport problems, help for women living alone, the need for solutions to gender violence.

Group members suggested a craft expo on the Peninsula, seats to sit on in walkways and shops, more barbeques in parks, transport to Patonga, ramps and promotion of local arts and theatre.

Ms Parsons said the Peninsula Project had been created to implement effective solutions to address the issues facing young people and older people in the Peninsula area.

She said it was about working together with all the existing agencies and networks to create a happy, healthy and safe community.

Alison Branley, February 5