Challenges facing older people in Wales was the main topic of conversation at the first meeting of the recently merged Ageing Well Denbighshire and Dementia Friendly Denbighshire network, with the Older People’s Commissioner, Helena Herklots being the guest speaker.

The event, held in Ruthin involved representatives from a variety of organisations across Denbighshire, and were joined by representatives from Conwy, as there are plans to work together across both counties to ensure that older people can access support near where they live.

Councillor Elen Heaton, Cabinet Lead Member for Health and Social Care, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Older People’s Commissioner to the county and to our first meeting of the newly merged network.

“Helena provided an inspiring and thought-provoking presentation on the challenges that currently face older people in Wales and the ways that she and her team seek to provide support to help us to respond to these challenges. She encouraged us in the steps we need to take next in order to be officially recognised as working toward age friendly status and she congratulated all of those providing vital support in many different ways.

“The Commissioner also introduced us to the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s Age Friendly Communities scheme and its eight key themes: outdoor spaces and buildings, transport, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication and information and community support and health services. As our older generation are living longer, we must all work together to make sure that we meet their needs and allow them to live as independently as possible, but with the right support in place, should they need it”.

Anyone interested in being part of this network should contact Holly Evans via e-mail: holly.evans@denbighshire.gov.uk The next meeting will be held on line on November 3rd at 2pm.