Havant MP encourages older people to use borough services with first information fair

The Havant Older Persons’ Information Fair will be held for the first time at the Hayling Island Community Centre tomorrow from 10am to 3pm.

Havant MP Alan Mak organised it in a bid to promote the wellbeing of the elderly in his constituency.

He said: ‘As your local MP, it is my goal to improve life for everyone living across Havant, whether that is getting people back into work through my Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair, celebrating our thriving local economy through my Small Business Awards, or by supporting our many excellent local schools and community groups.

‘This fair will showcase the very best of what is on offer for our senior citizens in the community while also signposting essential services.’

More than 35 societies, organisations and trusts have signed up as exhibitors for the event in London Road.

These include transport service Driving Miss Daisy, workshop group Havant Men’s Shed and the local branch of the University of the Third Age.

Christine Carter, chair of U3A Havant, says: ‘It’s part of our remit to encourage more people to join the U3A, so it’s great to be part of the fair. It’s very important not only for older people but also for any organisation that can stop them feeling lonely.

‘We hope that everyone who joins will contribute something to the U3A. I think we keep people happy but we’re always open to new ideas.’

Representatives from national charities that support older people, such as Age UK and the Alzheimer’s Society will be at the event.

Entry is free and it is not exclusively for older people in the borough.

Friends, family, neighbours and carers are welcome to attend.

Mr Mak added: ‘I fully appreciate the hard work and contribution to society made by our older residents, with many of them running groups for the benefit of the whole community.

‘These help address loneliness, combat illness and improve wellbeing, all of which helps older people live independently for longer, something I am very keen to promote as an MP.’