Reading's Older People’s Working Group celebrates with festive social
Members met at the Civic Centre for a Christmas social that included talks, refreshments and a Christmas quiz
Reading Borough Council celebrated the contribution made by its Older People’s Working Group in December with a special festive themed social.
The meeting on Friday, December 15 at the Civic Centre had a lighter agenda than usual and a chance to join in with singing carols and enjoy a Christmas themed quiz.
For history lovers, there were two fascinating talks on offer. Chandra Burathoki spoke on ‘The History of the Nepalese community and Nepalese war veterans in Reading’ and Andrew Singo presented on ‘Exploring The Hidden/Unknown History Of The BAME (British. Black, Asian, and minority ethnic in Reading’.
There were refreshments for everyone to enjoy along with seasonal singing from Kennet Day Nursery Children, music from the Caribbean Serenaders as well as a performance from the Tea & Jam Ukulele Music Band.
The December meeting is always a great chance for new members to join the Older People’s Working Group. The group, which was established in 2011, is an excellent opportunity for older residents to get involved in the decision making process and have a say about services provided by the Council.
Information will be shared about a range of opportunities over the holiday season to stay in touch with neighbours or make new friends.
Meetings are open to all older residents of Reading. The group decides the topics for discussion and there is always a space for people to raise current issues. There are around 6 meetings a year, most attended by between 50-60 people and with around 400 registered members overall.
If people would like to attend they either should call 0118 937 2383 or email opwg@reading.gov.uk
Cllr Gul Khan, Chair of the Older People’s Working Group, said: “The Older People’s Working Group is a wonderful opportunity to talk to your councillors and other decision makers about what’s important to you.
“The December meeting is an especially great time to come and join in. This year we have some particularly interesting talks and some fantastic musical entertainment lined up. Please come along and help us spread the word – tell your older friends and neighbours about the group and encourage them to come along too!”
Cllr Rachel Eden, Deputy Chair of the group and Lead Member for Adult Social Care, said: “The group is a great opportunity to be part of the older generation’s voice in influencing services and helping to shape a better Reading. The December meeting is also always a nice opportunity to socialise and celebrate Christmas together.
“Although enjoyable for many, some people find Christmas a particularly lonely time. Older people can be at risk of becoming isolated when regular services take a break, and we want to support people to reduce loneliness and its health risks.”
The agenda of the evening can be found here.
