New Keighley networks link older people with support services (From Keighley News)

New Keighley networks link older people with support services

1:00pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in Keighley

Networks linking older people in each neighbourhood with groups serving them are to be set up in Keighley.

Older People Mutual Support Networks, based on postcode areas, already work successfully in other parts of Bradford district.

Julie Lintern, Keighley’s older people’s development manager, is now preparing to start groups in the BD20, 21 and 22 areas.

Five existing networks involve a total of 53 different organisations providing services for older people. Each is led by the needs of its community, and helps spread information or identify gaps in services.

Existing networks have tackled issues including dementia, transport and hospital discharge procedures, or forged links with schools and businesses.

Julie said: “They have provided an opportunity to learn and share information, including the fire service’s Friend of the Station Scheme and the Warm Homes Healthy People initiative. They have also helped to identify concerns within communities.”

Networks for the three Keighley postcode areas will start shortly. Meeting dates will be added to the divabradford.org.uk website.

Contact Julie on (01535) 665258, 07950 180049 or julie@kivca.org.uk for details.