AM ATTENDS LAUCH OF ADVOCACY PROJECT TO SAFEGUARD OLDER PEOPLE

Aberavon AM, David Rees, today (25/01/12) attended the launch of the ‘Safeguarding Older People Regional Independent Advocacy Project’. The safeguarding Older People Project in South West Wales is collaboration between Age Cymru Swansea Bay, Age Concern Neath Port Talbot and Age Concern Morgannwg. Their aim is to deliver an independent Advocacy Services to older people living in the counties of Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.

David Rees AM said:

‘I’m delighted to have attended this event. We are fast becoming an ageing society and we must ensure that older people have their rights protected and promoted and are able to rely upon a strong voice being available to represent them.

Furthermore, a stronger voice and real control is one of the principal aims of the new wide-ranging Social Services Bill for Wales which was announced yesterday. I would like to encourage any older people who are feeling vulnerable, concerned or are in need of help to contact the advocacy service.’

The service provides instructed advocacy and is available for anyone over the age of 50 who is living in the Swansea, Bridgend and Neath Port Talbot areas. Advocates can support older people who are living in their own home, residential care or even if they are in hospital. Advocates will be able to help protect older people from abuse or neglect, maintain their independence and liaise with other professionals and health services on their behalf.

To find out more about this or any other services, contact Age Concern Neath port Talbot on 01792 818200. Age Concern Neath Port Talbot is an independent local charity. They are not part of Age Cymru or Age UK, and remain Age Concern Neath Port Talbot. They help approximately 6000 people a year.