It’s been 20 years since the first Derbyshire 50+ forums were set up and they’ve grown a lot since then.
50+ Forums are about creating a powerful voice for people aged 50 and over in Derbyshire. There are now forums to be found across Derbyshire with over 3,000 members.
By working together as a collective voice, the forums work to bring about real change to the lives of their members.
Each local forum is independently run by local people for local people.
They meet regularly to discuss important issues, work with organisations to make improvements to services and facilities and find time to have fun too.
Our Cabinet Member for Health and Communities, Councillor Dawn Abbott said:
“50+ forums provide a valuable service in their local community.
“They work to improve local health services, keep local history alive and provide a vital opportunity for social connection and friendship.
“Over the years the forums have acted as a collective voice to ensure that older people’s voices are heard on topics that are important to them.
“We’re pleased to celebrate 20 years of the forums and look forward to seeing what the next 20 years will bring.”
Ilkeston forum’s Vice Chair Rita Leverton added:
“After going to the first meeting I knew that I wanted to be part of this amazing group.
“We are able to give our community information they would not otherwise have access to, such as learning about what benefits they could claim.
“It is very rewarding to know that we are helping our community and will continue to do so.”
Some of the projects that the Derbyshire forums have been involved in include:
- The Long Eaton Bus Shelter Graffiti Campaign - partnered with Trent Barton and Erewash Borough Council.
- Digital Inclusion Project to help people get online.
- Delivering intergenerational IT skills courses.
- Working with Erewash Museum on a Derbyshire Heritage Partnership Working Award.
Find out more about 50+ Forums
Alternatively email fiftyplusforums@derbyshire.gov.uk.
Or tel: 01629 539623 and leave a message.