THE OLDER People’s Commissioner for Wales visited Torfaen on Tuesday (July 22), meeting with over 60 older people to hear directly about the issues and challenges affecting their lives.
The event, held at Cwmbran Library, brought together members of 50+ Forums from Cwmbran, Pontypool and Blaenavon, who shared a range of concerns.
Key issues raised included the cost of living and energy prices, with people frustrated that increases in the State Pension are not sufficient to cover rapidly rising costs. Older people also highlighted the difficulties they often face when accessing local health services, as well as the lack of places in nearby care homes.
Other issues raised with the Commissioner included the availability and accessibility of public transport (particularly for those who use wheelchairs and mobility aids), the impact of digital exclusion, and the declining use of cash.
A specific issue highlighted was the fact there have been no banks in Blaenavon for several years and that progress to establish a new banking hub in the town has been very slow. Forum members told the Commissioner this made it much more difficult to manage their finances, particularly if they are not online.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the Commissioner to speak with older people about her role and priorities, highlighting the action she is delivering to improve the lives of older people. During the visit, the Commissioner also shared contact information for her Advice and Assistance Service, which provides help and support to older people on a wide variety of matters.
Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies said: “50+ Forums are an important platform for older people to share information, discuss issues impacting their lives and influence local services, so I was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with over 60 forum members from across Torfaen yesterday.
“Many of the older people I spoke with are concerned about living costs and their finances, and find it difficult to access local services, such as health services and public transport.
“I’d like to thank all of the older people who took part in yesterday’s event for their openness and willingness to share their personal experiences.
“The conversations we had were hugely valuable in highlighting the issues older people in the area are facing, as well as their impact, which will help to guide and shape my work as Commissioner.”
