The Older People’s Network (OPN) was originally formed in 2000 and is supported by Cheshire County Council. Its main website can be viewed at www.opn.org.uk.
The aim of the OPN is to:
- Encourage older people and carers to get involved in speaking up for themselves
- Keep older people and their carers informed about issues that matter to them via our quarterly newsletter
- Attend focus group meetings on issues such as community safety
- Learn new skills
- Offer volunteering opportunities
- Make new friends and meet other likeminded people
- Encourage contribution to their local community
- Advocate on behalf of other people
Some issues the OPN has been successful in influencing include:
- Challenging the County Council on the cost of social care
- Travel issues, such as campaigning to improve public and community transport
- Street audits – campaigning for new road crossings, levelling kerb stones and pavement, dropped pavements for wheelchair/scooter users and health and safety risks
- One stop shops – a central point for information and advice
- Doorstep crime and feeling safe on the street
We extend a warm welcome to all older people, their carers, and any individual or group who are interested in working to improve the quality of life for older people and their carers in Cheshire.
How to join
OPN is free to join and you can be involved as little or as much as you like.
There are four levels of membership you can choose from:
Level 1 – Member:
For people over 60 and carers of older people. You will receive relevant information and quarterly newsletters, invitations to special events, focus groups, and conferences etc.
Level 2 – Core Group Member:
For those people over 60 and carers who wish to play a more active role. The Core Group meets monthly in venues across Central Cheshire. They meet with senior managers, Chief Executive and elected members of the County Council and other organisations, such as Police, Fire Brigade, Health and other voluntary agencies.
They participate at conferences and undertake research projects to find out the views of older people.
Level 3 – Associate Member:
For Cheshire County Council (CCC) employees and Borough and County Councillors.
Level 4 – Group Members:
Other groups and organisations can affiliate to the OPN.
Applications to join
or
or
- to obtain a membership pack please contact:
The Older People's Network Co-ordinator
Tel: 01606 815703/815771
Email: viv.woodburn@cheshire.gov.uk |