Seniors form a direct line to council
Did you know Palmerston North has formed a seniors reference group and is looking for members? The Seniors Reference Group connects council with Palmy's growing community of older citizens. The over-60 population is about 19 per cent according to the 2018 Census.
In line with global trends, longterm projections for Palmy show this cohort will increase as a proportion of the population faster than any other age group. This has implications for areas such as housing, health, employment, financial and social issues.
While Palmerston North has worked alongside organisations who work for or with seniors for many years, the Seniors Reference Group provides a dedicated regular platform for older people's voices to be heard and considered by council.
The group will help the council respond to current and future opportunities to create a city that works for everyone.
We're currently seeking interest from people who might be interested in taking part.
Other reference groups include the Disability Reference Group, and a Pasifika Reference Group.
Each group has 8 to 15 volunteers, who meet the following criteria:
Group members need to live within Palmerston North city boundaries at the time of selection, be available to regularly attend (either online or in person) and contribute to scheduled meetings, and they need to have lived experience relevant to the purpose and/or demographic of the group, a broad knowledge of issues relevant to the group, good relationships and networks with relevant communities, the ability to work effectively in a team, and an understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Meetings are held four times a year (or more, if the group wants to meet more frequently), and are supported by a council officer and a liaison councillor.
Call 356 8199 for more information.