Charity welcomes councillor to new HQ
West Lothian older people’s champion, Councillor Chris Horne, visited a local charity at its new base.
The councillor was in Bathgate to meet West Lothian 50+ Network trustees Anne and Willie Webster and Sue BedfordVisser at their new premises in George Street.
Promoted throughout the country by Age Scotland, Older People’s Champions aim to improve life for older people and ensure they have a strong voice. The role involves identifying issues affecting local older people and standing up for their interests.
During the visit Councillor Horne was able to learn more about the work carried out by the 50+ Network and the role the group plays in helping to prevent social isolation for the individuals they work with.
The detrimental effects of social isolation on the elderly are welldocumented, and West Lothian 50+ Network has been highly commended by Age Scotland for the work they do to engage older people, providing them with activities which support physical and mental well-being whilst offering the chance to meet new people and make new friends.
There’s a new trend in “social prescribing” - referring patients to social activities to improve wellbeing and reduce demand on health services. It’s particularly pertinent to older people, where social isolation – loneliness - has been linked to very adverse health effects.
The West Lothian 50+ Network has
known this since it started some 27 years ago and continues to address the problem with their prescription for activity, companionship and fun.
The network helps to give a sense of purpose, often called into question after retirement, bereavement or when families spread their wings. Through activities which keep mind and body active, there’s the chance to meet a new network of friends and companions.
Councillor Horne said: “It was a pleasure to meet with trustees and learn more about how the West Lothian 50+ Network is a valuable outlet for many in our communities. Events and activities
run by the Network provide opportunities for much needed social interaction which is something that we all know shouldn’t be taken for granted.”
West Lothian 50+ Network convener, Anne Webster, said: “We are a volunteer led organisation. We make things happen for ourselves and help each other to keep active and connected through around 60 different special interest groups, social events, outings and holidays. Most of our activities are run by volunteer members for other members.”
The range of weekly group activities on offer is huge, from exercise groups to language classes, coffee clubs to lunch
clubs, music groups to games and crafts.
Anyone aged over 50 living in the West Lothian area is eligible to join, and many members talk about how the group has transformed their lives.
If you are thinking of joining the near 480 members of the 50+ Network then you can look forward to becoming involved with a friendly and supportive group of over fifties.
To find out more about the West Lothian 50+ Network, phone 01506 635510, visit their website at https://westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/