Calderdale Forum 50plus celebrating UK older people's day

Calderdale Forum 50+, a new group which will give people over 50 the chance to make their voices heard, is holding a launch event at Halifax Town Hall on UK Older People's Day, Friday, 1 October (12.00 noon - 3.00pm).

People who are 50 and over are invited to drop in to the event, organised by Age Concern, Age UK and Calderdale Council, where they can find out more about the forum, sign up for membership and join in the Older People's Day celebration.

There will be networking, demonstrations, activities and ideas for getting and staying active in later life. Free refreshments are available (12.00 - 1.00).

Lynne Houlden, Development Officer, Age Concern Calderdale and Kirklees says:

"There are over 70,000 people in Calderdale who are 50 or over and every voice matters. "Calderdale Forum 50+ will work with existing groups and other forums to improve local services and facilities. The Forum aims to improve the quality of life for all 50+ people in Calderdale, both now and in the future. "All over Calderdale, older people are regularly volunteering their time and experience to run campaigning organisations, support networks, computer classes and craft groups. They make an enormous contribution to society. "At the celebration event we aim to highlight some of the remarkable achievements of 50+ people. We are aware of some of these stories, but would like more people to share their accomplishments, to help and inspire others." Calderdale Council's Cabinet Member, Adults Health and Social Care, Cllr Bob Metcalfe, says: "The new forum will be a great way for people over the age of 50 to have their say on a whole range of issues which affect them."

Some examples of individual achievements include:

Christine Grysziewicz (aged 58) was told at a Healthy Halifax session that her metabolic age was 71. She has lost weight and is now in training to cycle 400 kilometres through the Kenyan Rift Valley, to raise money for women's cancer charities. Barbara Ellison worked hard to overcome two strokes and has been helped by over 50s groups such as Oak in Todmorden, which provides exercise sessions, tai chi, dancing, singing and socialising with like minded people. Barbara achieved her ambition to climb the steep steps up to Todmorden railway station and says she now leads a 'fairly active and a fulfilling life'.

click here for more details or to contact Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council