ON MONDAY (September 1), the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales spoke with over 40 older people from the Llanharan OAP Association, who told her that they often feel that their views and feedback are not heard by the local authority, which means they find it difficult to influence the decisions affecting their lives and community.
The Commissioner’s visit began with a brief overview of her role and work remit, and then an open discussion was had with the members about the concerns that they had within their local area, providing a great opportunity to hear directly about the issues most impacting their lives in Llanharan, and across Rhondda Cynon Taf.
A real concern for social care provision was raised by the older people, with many members expressing dissatisfaction with the care that some friends and family members with dementia have received. Members called for a transformation of social care services to ensure that these services will be improved going forward.
Concerns were also raised around the number of long-standing NHS dentists in the area turning to private practise, as well as difficulties in accessing GP appointments, and seeing the same GP consistently. Some older people told the Commissioner that they needed to catch four buses to travel to areas such as Bridgend or Pontypridd, to receive their Covid vaccinations, which could leave many older people missing out on vital healthcare treatment.
Frustrations were also expressed about infrastructure, including an absence of accessible bus stops, and car parks which charge more for using cash than paying with card, which contributes to the increased isolation of older people from the local town, hindering access to local shops and facilities.
The UK Government’s road safety review proposals furthered people’s feelings of discontent, with members telling the Commissioner that they felt they were targets purely due to their age.
Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, said: “It was really insightful to meet with the Llanharan OAP Association, to learn first-hand about the issues impacting their lives within the local community.
“The group was first established in 1978, and its members meet regularly at Llanharan OAP Hall to share and receive information, and participate in regular trips and activities.
“Members told me that the group was a real focal point within the community, providing a space for them to socialise and build friendships.
“The issues surrounding social care, GP access, dental treatments and hospital travel time are consistent with what is continually raised with me by older people across Wales, but it was also interesting to learn about their local concerns, such as the potential for local services to be stretched in capacity as 1000 new homes have recently received planning permission in the locality.
“It is positive to note that during the visit, conversations were had about how the group members could effectively connect with the Age Friendly Communities Lead for Rhondda Cynon Taf, for further discussions and to ensure that their voices are heard.”
