Attitudes to older people in Cumbria are being challenged through a series of special one-woman plays.
From 12th to 16th February, the Pyramid Theatre Company will be performing the Sean McGowan play Who's Helen? in six locations around the county.
The drama tells the story of Helen, a pensioner living alone, and through her some of the issues facing older people today.
Cumbria has a significantly ageing population with one in three people expected to be of retirement age by 2028. Currently, around 27 per cent of all householders in the county are aged over 65. This compares with the national 23 per cent average.
Supported by The Care Sector Alliance, the Cumbria Foundation, Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Primary Care Trust, Age Concern, the Alzheimer Society and Agilisys, the play is targeted at health and social care professionals in Cumbria and members of the public of all ages interested in improving health and social care services.
At the end of the play, the actor remains in character to answer questions from the audience about any of the issues raised.
Questionnaires are also distributed with the results used by the county council, health service and independent providers to help shape the delivery of older people’s services in Cumbria.
People wishing to attend any of the events (listed below) should get in touch with organisers on the relevant number:
Monday 12 February at the Whitehaven United Reform Church - contact Age Concern on 01946 66669
Tuesday 13 February at the Eden Rural Foyer, Penrith - contact Age Concern on 01768 863618
Wednesday 14 February at the Shakespeare Centre, Kendal - contact Age Concern on 01539 728118
Wednesday 14 February at the Coronation Hall, Ulverston - contact Age Concern on 01539 728118
Thursday 15 February at the Brampton Community Centre - contact the Brampton 50+ club on 01228 675684
Friday 16 February at the Morton Community Centre, Carlisle - contact Age Concern on 01228 536673
ENDS
Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228 606337