Lancashire's new Champion for Older People

County Councillor Joan Burrows, Lancashire's new Champion for Older People, wants to ensure older people in Lancashire have all the support they need to continue to lead active lives.

Her role is to advise the leader and cabinet members on how the county council can support older people to be fit and healthy, and live independently.

Councillor Burrows, who lives in Penwortham, previously worked for Preston Council for Voluntary Services for 18 years and for Preston Citizens' Advice Bureau for five years.

She was appointed as Champion for Older People in June. She said: "Times are changing – 70 is the new 50 and older people can now expect to live for many years after they retire.

"Older people are wanting to live a much more active lifestyle and get involved with activities such as walking, cycling, learning how to use new technology and studying for different qualifications. I want to do all I can to make sure they have the opportunity to learn and stay active.

"I have experience of working with many community groups from my previous jobs and volunteering, and will work closely with them, the cabinet members and older people in Lancashire, to see if we can make the most of what's on offer.

"We want to continue to address older people's concerns , such as preventing falls and support for people living with conditions like dementia.

"I also want to focus on what people can do, and ensure people have the support they need to continue to make a positive contribution to life in Lancashire."

Councillor Burrows also has a £10,000 fund for this financial year to support her activities as champion. She is inviting groups who want to apply for grant funding to get in contact.

She added: "I will be looking to hand out grants to groups across Lancashire to support them in their work to help older people develop new skills, make a positive contribution and continue to live independently.

"We'll also be hosting events, so that local people and groups can find out about the work that's being done, including an event to mark the International Day of Older Persons in October."

Any groups wanting to apply for a grant should contact Councillor Burrows by emailing joan.burrows@lancashire.gov.uk

To find out more about the county council's Champions, visit: http://www3.lancashire.gov.uk/corpor...2&pageid=38603