L-R: Alwyn Jones, Head of Adult Services, Councillor Aaron Shotton, Leader of the Council, Councillor Christine Jones, Cabinet Member for Social Services, Councillor Carolyn Thomas, Chair, Colin Everett, Chief Executive
Flintshire County Council is reaffirming its commitment to older people by signing up to a national agreement to create an age-friendly community.
As the number of people living longer increases, councils need to consider ways to ensure that communities offer quality of life for the older population. The Welsh Government recently announced the next step in their strategy for older people – Living Longer, Ageing Well, which sets the challenge to make shared spaces welcoming, safe and accessible for older people.
The signing of the Dublin Declaration by the Council adds an important dimension to the work that is already being undertaken across the County. Flintshire has a large network of active 50+ forums and groups and their continued contribution to supporting age-friendly communities through participation, involvement and engagement is greatly valued.
The declaration is a public statement of intent to work with other organizations, share experiences, and promote equal rights and opportunities for older people.
Led by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and supported by the WLGA through the Ageing Well in Wales Programme, 11 councils in Wales have already signed up to the Dublin Declaration with the rest expected to follow. This public support will pave the way for action across Wales to respond to, what older people say is important to them, in order to remain fit, active and to be able to participate in local community life.
Councillor Christine Jones, Cabinet Member for Social Services said:
“Living in a community that is sensitive to individual needs is something we all want to experience. The signing of the agreement puts the Council on an international stage and will provide further confirmation of dedicated, on-going work. It will enable the Council to participate in a co-ordinated network across Wales which will work to adapt the guidelines of the WHO to best fit with Welsh communities.”
The Ageing Well in Wales (WLGA) programme will be responsible for organizations in the agreement and membership of this network will give access to information, project news, guidance on developing age friendly approaches and new partnerships.
