CENTRAL Bedfordshire Council (CBC) is helping older people in the local community benefit from more local services through its support of the Information for Older People initiative The first event outlining what the initiative is about being held by

CENTRAL Bedfordshire Council (CBC) is helping older people in the local community benefit from more local services through its support of the 'Information for Older People' initiative

The first event outlining what the initiative is about being held by Bedfordshire Advocacy Service for Older People at Arlesey Village Hall, on Thursday.

The event provides local elderly people with the opportunity to meet key organisations in the community such as CBC's Older People's Reference Group, Aragon Housing, Age Concern, the Volunteer Centre, adult learning, Community Safety and Bedfordshire Credit Unions, who will be will be presenting information about their local services for older people.

Cllr Carole Hegley, portfolio holder for adult social care said: "The council is pleased to be supporting this worthwhile event which is giving older people in the community the chance to meet with local representatives and find out how they can benefit more from local services.

"The exhibitors will be representing educational, leisure, financial, community safety, and advice and information services from both the statutory and non-statutory sectors, and independent advocacy, all working in partnership to engage the older community and promote their well-being."

Gail Shanahan, service manager with Bedfordshire Advocacy Service for Older People, added: "It can be difficult for older people to know where to find the services they need, helping older people to find the right information and support is a large part of advocacy work, with an event like this, we hope to raise awareness by bringing local and countywide services to the people, in their own community."

The event is between 11am and 3pm and people wishing to find out more information should contact:Teresa Boyle on 0780 780 2542.