Wales’ Older People's Commissioner visits Gwynedd

Monday, 27 April 2009

Ruth Marks, Wales' first Older People's Commissioner has visited Gwynedd as part of a fact finding visit relating to various matters which effect the lives of older people mliving in Wales.

As part of her recent visit to Gwynedd, Ruth Marks had the opportunity to visit the Age Concern Gwynedd a Môn offices where she met Age Concern officers, Gwynedd’s Older People’s Strategy Coordinator and officers as well as Gwynedd Council’s Older People’s Champion.

Members of the Age Concern and Gwynedd Older People’s Forums were also present, and Ruth Marks gave a presentation outlining the Commission’s responsibilities and the challenge facing them over the coming years.

The Commissioner noted that she was pleased to see voluntary organisations and public bodies working together in the area with the same aim of improving services for older people.

Following the meeting at the Age Concern offices, they went on to Penygroes to see Gwynedd Council’s telecare system at work. The system enables older and vulnerable people to continue living independently in their own homes with the help of innovative technology.

They then moved on the Penygroes Lunch Club to discuss with members there who benefit from two hot meals every week.

The visit was an excellent opportunity for people to meet Wales' Older People's Commissioner face to face, and Ruth Marks was very willing to answer any questions.