APEX Housing in partnership with Choice Housing and supported by Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership and PSNI hosted an information event in the Maldron Hotel on Thursday 2nd October to celebrate International Day of Older Persons.
The event focussed on health and wellbeing for older persons in the North West with a key presentation delivered by Mary McConville from Arthritis Care.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane, Councillor Elisha McCallion, spent time speaking to attendees and commended International Day of Older Persons as recognition of the positive contribution our older people have made to our communities and indeed the contribution they are still making.
She said: “I would like to congratulate all of the agencies involved in organising this event. It’s always great to meet our elderly citizens and I’m delighted to see such an entertaining and informative event being put together for their benefit.”
Speaking about the event Ellen Hall, Housing and Care Services Manager at Apex Housing said “We are committed to the safety, health and wellbeing of all our tenants and this was a wonderful opportunity to work in partnership with other agencies to ensure that our elderly citizens have access to advice and support for issues that matter to them.
“Today has been a great success with all of our tenants having a good afternoon’s craic, celebrating International Day of Older Persons and getting a little help and advice along the way.”
Apex’s Financial Inclusion Officer, Michael Lyttle spoke of the importance of Older People having their benefits checked regularly, as over £200 Million goes unclaimed in N. Ireland every year. Michael also advised the attendees on bank accounts and affordable credit.
Councillor Eric McGinley, Chair of the Derry and Strabane PCSP commented: “The PCSP is delighted to support this event and I can assure you that the safety of our elderly residents and indeed the safety of all our communities is a key priority for us.
“The Derry and Strabane PCSP will strive to do everything it can to ensure that our elderly citizens can continue to live in peace without fear of crime.”
At the event the PCSP, Community Safety Wardens, PSNI, ALLY Foyle, Credit Union, Choice Housing and Citizens Advice Bureau provided information stands for attendees.
