South Side Connections Seniors Forum Open Day April 24 2009
The Open Day got off to a good start when Anne Scott (chairwoman) introduced local politicians. Councillors D Alderslow, J Hanif, AM Millar and J Scanlon. They had a common theme in their speeches: the environment. Cllr Alderslow spoke of his concern about climate change. He also stressed how important it is to look after each other.
Carers have difficulty in having their voices heard. Although we have social problems in Govanhill it is still a good community. Cllr Millar congratulated the Seniors Forum on the good work they do in the community for the elderly. She also mentioned her work with the Community Planning Neighbourhood Partnership Team. Cllr Scanlon is mostly involved with Toryglen but is kept up to date on local issues by Cllr Millar. He came from Allison St and keeps a listening brief on the problems in the area. Cllr Hanif congratulated the Seniors Forum on the work with the elderly. He thought the elderly sometimes got forgotten about and get lonely after they retire. In his work in the area he has seen a deterioration in the quality of life. He is willing to listen to the problems. It is the responsibly of politicians to offer help.
MSP F MacAveety, who arrived later, spoke of the good work done by the Forum and pointed out the lack of Forums in other areas. He promised to support their work and do all he can to provide better facilities in the future. Anne Scott pointed out that the brain doesn't stop working when you retire at sixty. Older people are capable of contributing to society for many years afterwards. She voiced the concerns of most people about the environmental impact of the deterioration of the area. The problems in Langside Road and Allison St are moving down towards Dixon Rd. This part should not be forgotten about.
After the speeches the visitors were free to browse through the various stalls giving information on subjects of interest. The stalls included: advice on keeping warm in your home, GHA housing advice, Spt transport information, Victoria Hospital which is due to open in June, Glasgow South East Carers, Contact the Elderly, Fire safety advice.
There was a buffet providing tea and coffee and a variety of snacks to suit all tastes. If you needed to relax after all that a head massage was on offer by SEAL. After a very successful day the ever popular raffle was drawn. The 1st prize was a dinner for two at the Glynmill Hotel in Paisley.
