Age Friendly Melksham’s trustees have met and drawn up three aims and objectives to take the organisation forward.
A spokesperson said, “Naturally they are not the end of the planning as things will move on and different priorities will emerge. Much of what Age Friendly Melksham will be doing in the future will be determined by you the residents, as well as Melksham community at large.
To be fully effective, Age Friendly asks that you tell them what will make the life of Melksham more inclusive for you, your family, and your friends. Philippa Huxtable, the co-ordinator, is becoming a familiar face with Melksham Community Support Group, and others, so as we relax the restrictions in the future she will be able to hear your views, hopes and ideas, at first hand.
Until then get in touch, either by email Philippa@afmelksham.org.uk or telephone 01225-809265.
“Aim 1: We will provide excellent services and support within the Melksham community area to meet the growing numbers of older and vulnerable people of all ages for the benefit our community.
Objectives:
• MCS continuation/development
• Recognise the additional challenges for social isolation at special times such as Christmas and other anniversaries
• Information/community resource on our website
• Promote and collaborate to address highlighted issues e.g. social isolation, dementia, cross-cultural, inter-generational discord
• Establish mechanisms to involve older people throughout AFM activities
• Recruit team of Age Friendly companions (who can act as an interface between our community portal and residents without internet access)
• Develop an Age Friendly Charter for Melksham
“Aim 2: We recognise that age is a number not a hurdle. As a member of the National Age Friendly Network we will influence, raise awareness, advocate and educate across our community to develop an Age Friendly environment.
Objectives:
• Age Friendly Champions – a presence at all relevant Town/Parish/Wilts Council and other community meetings to advocate for older residents – supporting healthy ageing in all policies at all levels
• Raising our profile – area of expertise
• Educating through local groups/clubs/schools/businesses etc to challenge and change the way that policymakers, and people themselves think, feel and act towards age and ageing
• Develop community portal that allows signposting of community groups and activities, as well as partner organisations where people can gain advice or support on issues such as housing, poverty, unemployment etc
“Aim 3: We will strengthen Age Friendly Melksham to ensure growth and sustainability, making sure Melksham community area can continue to rely on us to support active and healthy ageing.
Objectives:
• Financial stability, to develop a medium and long term fundraising strategy
• Robust infrastructure – Governance & Board
• Data management – Lamplight AFM install
• Excellent volunteer management – becoming a volunteer magnet; nurturing this valuable resource
• Develop Age Friendly steering group
• Commitment to our values in everything we do.
“In conclusion, Age Friendly Melksham is only one of two market towns in the UK which has successfully kept communities connected, dealt robustly with the issues of social isolation through telephone calls and deliveries of essential items during this pandemic – and will continue to do so!”
For further information about Age Friendly Melksham, contact 01225- 809265.
