17 - Dudley’s forward thinking approach to older people

 

The audit commission’s report, ‘Don’t stop me now – preparing for an ageing population’ focuses on how councils are preparing for ageing populations. It showcases Dudley Council as an authority which is working well with older people in the local community.

 

It particularly highlights Dudley’s successful relationship with the ‘magnificent seven’, a panel of older people who champion older peoples’ needs across the borough.  A member from the ‘magnificent seven’ sits on each of the council’s seven action groups which focus on the strategic aims of Dudley’s older peoples’ strategy.  The strategy was developed in partnership with Age Concern Dudley and Dudley PCT.

 

The report also praises the council’s falls prevention programme. Dudley community falls service is free for all people over 65 who have fallen recently, are at risk of falling or have concerns about their balance.  The service helps to prevent falls by making homes safer through household adaptations and, where appropriate, referring people to a 12-week exercise programme. 

 

“I’m delighted our approach to understanding and supporting older people in the borough has been recognised nationally.  Congratulations to all staff involved in developing services and special thanks to the magnificent seven who have helped Dudley Council develop a clear vision for older people within the borough”. 

 

Dudley is one of just three authorities to be praised in the report along with Blackpool and Penwith.  Meanwhile, the report has found in general that councils in England are not ready to meet the challenges of catering for an ageing population.