More than fifty people attended an open meeting in Abergavenny recently (November 9th) to discuss the performance of the National Health Service in its treatment of the elderly in Wales. Hosted by the Abergavenny Action 50+ group, the town’s forum for older people, the main speaker was Assistant Commissioner for Older People, Sarah Stone.
Ms Stone outlined the findings of the Welsh Government’s recent review “Dignified Care? Experiences of older people in hospital in Wales” which highlights how much has to be done to meet acceptable standards. Many of those present, including visitors from the Monmouth 50+ group, shared their experiences, good and bad, of hospital care and were keen to inform the debate. Reporter Paul Heaney of BBC Wales who is preparing a feature on the future of the NHS in Wales took several interviews and was interested to hear people’s stories.
Actions 50+ are friendly, informal groups meeting in Monmouth and Abergavenny. They aim to give older people a voice in local issues campaign for better access to services. The next meeting of the group is on Friday 9th December 2011 at 10am at Abergavenny Baptist Church Hall. Anyone aged 50+, or who is simply interested in issues affecting older people, is welcome. All meeting rooms are accessible and refreshments are served.
