RAINBOW Services Harlow’s Community Builder project recently hosted three fabulous all day Safe & Social events for older people, in partnership with West Essex CCG and Harlow Council.

The three events were identical but held at different venues across the town, Harlow Rugby Club, Harlow Cricket Club and The Great Parndon Community Association.
Over 300 of our older residents enjoyed a morning of information, delivered in the style of speed dating, a freshly prepared hot lunch and an afternoon of entertainment provided by the wonderful singer Diane Moore.

In an attempt to make the information easier to hear and for discussion to take place, the guests were seated in similar size tables and speakers went round to each table to share information and answer questions. The speakers came from Compassionate Neighbours (St Clare’s Hospice), The Fire Service, Community Agents, Crimestoppers, Public Health England, A team of pharmacists, Neighbourhood Watch, Citizens Advice plus the Frailty Team, Audiology Department and the Falls Prevention Team from Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Sally Millership, Consultant in Communicable Disease at Public Health East of England, said:
“At PHE, we were delighted to be asked to take part and support such an important series of events in Harlow, focussing on helping older people keep Safe and Well.

“As we know, timely interventions during midlife and beyond offer great potential to increase wellbeing, maintain health in both body and mind and reduce the risk of losing independence.

A lot can be done to help improve and maintain general health, especially to people over the age of 65; such as checking eye health, maintaining good oral health, getting hearing tested and being vaccinated against shingles, pneumococci and flu.

“Events such as these organised by Rainbow Services are a great way to meet like-minded people, share stories, but also learn about health actions people can take to remain well”

The Community Builder team currently runs 14 social groups every week across the town, for older people. If you would like any further information, please call Kelly on 07793 007737.