20/2/2009 - Housing issues for older people

A series of discussion groups for over 50s will be held around the county next week to help shape the future of where people are cared for when they are older.

The meetings are designed to capture the thoughts of older people who either need extra support now or are thinking about where they would like to be in the future.

Cumbria County Council has asked Shaping Our Lives, an independent organisation, to speak to around 100 people to find out a range of views and opinions on housing options. 

The meetings will be held in the following locations and are expected to last no more than two hours:

24th February: Barrow - Age Concern, Abbey Rd 10.30 to 12.30 or 1.30 to 3.30 Whitehaven - Whitehaven Civic Hall 10.30 to 12.30 or 1.30 to 3.30

25th February: Carlisle - Council for Voluntary Service, Spencer St 10.30 to 12.30 or 1.30 to 3.30 Kendal –Jenkins Crag Court - 10.30 to 12.30 Kendal –Castle Street Community Centre 10.30 to 12.30 

26th February: Penrith - Methodist Church 10.30 to 12.30 or 1.30 to 3.30 Workington –St Michael’s Church 10.30 to 12.30 Keswick –Quaker Meeting House 1.30 to 3.30

There will be no more than ten people in each group and individual interviews can be arranged if people would prefer this to a group discussion. Travel expenses will be covered and other costs can also be met e.g. someone to cover for you if you are a carer.

Anyone wishing to attend should get in touch with Jenny or Jane at Shaping Our Lives: telephone 01539 736296 or leave a message and someone will respond. Alternatively email: cumbriahousingconsultation@googlemail.com 

ENDS

Media enquiries to Gareth Cosslett, News Manager on 01228 226332