CODGERS

QUARTERLY Embracing our age; re-defining the stereotype Issue 8— September 2016

NEWSLETTER OF THE 50+ ACTION GROUP To create an effective voice on all matters of concern to , and Affecting, people aged over 50 years in .

Dear. Readers INSIDE THIS ISSUE When work on this issue began I was concerned that Page: the majority of articles being received was from “official” sources. While the support that Codgers 2 Staying Steady Quarterly (CQ) receives from these sources is very 3 Flintshire Disability Services welcome, it is not in any way an “official” publication 4 Care & Repair/ Memory Cafes but the newsletter of the 50+ Action Group 5 OWL (Flintshire) produced on a purely voluntary basis. 6 Moel Arthur/ F/shire Diabetes So alongside items of broad public interest we also 7 50+ Action Group Update want to focus on local matters that may encourage 8 Credit Unions/ Cinemas over 50s to engage with others in their communities 9 Memory Lane and keep their bodies and minds active; including 10 Annecdote/Poem/ Over 50 providing material for CQ such as details of Group interesting trips, hobbies, funny anecdotes, poems, 11 Choc Brownies/ Rent Smart limericks (publishable please) etc.. So it is pleasing that since starting work I have received more articles 12 State Pension Info/ A & D Probus than there is space for (to be included in a future Club edition). 13 Volfest 2016/ Arthritis Care 14 Event/ Hero Honoured As our next issue date is December please bear this 15 Older People’s Commissioner in mind and if you have any time sensitive Christmas events or information for inclusion, send details 16 Age Connects/ The Coach over sooner rather than last 17 Older People’s Champion minute to avoid disappointment. 18 International Day for Older People The deadline is 14th November... 19 International Day for Older People/ Bingo Holywell/Bob Manifold Pat Ashford—Editor 20 Oddfellows Friendship Month [email protected]

This is a FREE publication which can be TAKEN AWAY.

If you find it informative and/or amusing please pass it on to family and friends. If you wish to ensure that you receive future quarterly copies you can register for e mail copies by contacting the Older People’s Engagement Worker at [email protected]

1 Staying Steady

Problems with balance are quite common as we grow older, and there are many reasons for this, most of which can be treated. Poor balance can make us unsteady and fearful of falling, or even cause a fall. This is more common after the age of 65, but by acting proactively early on we can avoid many of these problems. From the age of 50 we should be:

Keeping active—benefits are:  maintains muscle strength,  keeps joints supple (very important for the management of arthritis)  strengthens bone (reducing the risk of broken bones)  Improves coordination which is essential for balance.  Improves mood

The recommendation is at least two days a week, and the best exercise for maintaining good balance is Tai Chi (see previous editions of Codgers Quarterly). Avoid sitting for too long!

Getting enough Vitamin D—essential for:  The absorption of calcium from our food. Calcium is laid down in bone to strengthen it during the constant process of renewal of bone cells.  Muscle strength, which is needed for balance.

We naturally lose muscle as we get older. A lack of Vitamin D and under-use of the muscles makes this worse. Vitamin D is made by the action of sunlight on bare skin – but not through glass or from a sunbed! Sun screen will prevent the production of Vitamin D. Aim for 20 minutes a day with bare arms in ordinary mid day summer daylight on a daily basis to make enough vitamin D for the year. Apply the sunscreen after 20 minutes to avoid skin cancer! Recent evidence-based advice from Public Health recommends that we should all take Vitamin D supplements – not just infants and housebound elderly as previously advised.

What should you do if you are already having problems with your balance, or you have fallen?  Speak to your GP, who should undertake a basic medical assessment as falls can be caused by common medical problems.

 If you feel dizzy or disorientated when getting up from a chair or the bed it may mean that your blood pressure is slow to adapt itself as you stand. Your GP or nurse should check it with you lying and then standing.

Continued on page 3

2 Continued from page 2

 Your GP or pharmacist should review your medication as many commonly prescribed medications can cause dizziness, slow reaction time etc. Blood pressure tablets, sleeping tablets and strong painkillers are all culprits but do not stop them without a review.

 Your GP may refer you to someone who can look at the causes of your poor balance in a detailed but holistic way. In order to refer you the following questions need to be asked:

 Have you fallen in the last year?  Do you take more than four different types of medication?  Have you had Parkinson’s disease or a stroke?  Do you have a problem with you balance?  Can you get out of a dining room chair without holding on?

There are lots of other things we can do to stay steady – more in the next issue of the Codgers Quarterly newsletter.

Celia Drew, Falls Prevention Coordinator, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. [email protected] July 2016.

FDF formerly known as Flintshire Disability Services Supports physically disabled and sensory impaired adults across Flintshire we run 5 social groups each week.Monday Holywell Library, Tuesday Burntwood Court Centre Drury, Wednesday Community Centre, Thursday Llys Jasmine, Mold and Friday Mostyn Community Centre. All groups run from 1pm to 3pm We do organise regular outings so please ring to check before coming just in case we are not there 01352 756618 or email [email protected] We also offer advice, information and advocacy from our office in Mold Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm and Wednesdays 10am to 3pm. Wheelchair hire £2 per day or £5 per week, ring for more information. Tel: 01352 756618 or email [email protected]

Some people try to turn back their life's odometers. Not me, I want people to know 'why' I look this way. I've travelled a long, long way and some of the roads weren't paved.

3

Care and Repair North East Wales

Is an independent home improvement agency which is the result of an amalgamation between Flintshire and Wrexham Care & st Repair on the 1 April 2015.

Our role is to assist older people over the age of 60 and disabled adults who live in their own homes or private rented housing by providing advice and practical assistance with regards to repairs, renovations, maintenance and adaptations to their homes enabling them to live independently in a safe, warm and secure home.

This is achieved by a committed team of staff that provides advice on housing repair solutions, home maintenance, security, heating, energy efficiency and possible sources of funding for completing work. Welfare benefits advice is offered to maximise a client’s income, which helps to prevent fuel poverty

A “Healthy Homes Check” is carried out with clients that are visited. It is a simple check to ensure that any present or potential maintenance, repair or adaptation works are brought to your attention.

Technical expertise is given on all aspects of building works including the selection of suitable builders, effective tendering to compare prices and the monitoring of works whilst on site.

The agency maintains a register of reliable contractors and consultants for ordering work and referring to clients. Care and Repair North East Wales strives to support the local economy, where possible.

Care & Repair North East Wales’s Practical Services Team are available to carry out a variety of repairs or adaptations to your homes

Our expert Casework team can visit you in your home to listen and discuss any issues that concern you and identify individual solutions for you. We can offer assistance with grants and funding options, benefits checks, affordable warmth and energy efficiency advice, sensory impairment advice, hoarding tendency support, general support and advice, and signposting to appropriate services

Further information can be found on our website and we accept self-referrals by any of the below methods : Email – [email protected], Enquiry through our website www.careandrepairnew.co.uk Telephone 01352 758700

Flintshire Memory Cafes and events Various Memory Cafes and events such as Flintshire Sounds take place regularly all over the county, supporting people living with Memory problems, including family and friends. For more information and a calendar of events relating to memory cafes etc., please contact Luke Pickering Jones on 01352 702655 or [email protected].

The calendar is also available from Ella Jackson, Older Peoples Engagement worker; [email protected] 4 Neighbourhood Watch schemes play an important part in supporting the safety & wellbeing of older residents in Flintshire.

OWL Watch as we are known these days, provides people with crime and safety alerts! To register it is easy and free either visit www.owlcymru.org and/or www.owl.co.uk . If you prefer contact us on 01352 708118 or email to [email protected] featuring our Online Crime Prevention Shop http://www.owlcymru.org/shop/shop.html NEW Red dragon emblem Card Minder Pouches now available £1 each

Crime Prevention Pop up events, featuring ‘CRIME BUSTER’ TOMBOLA learn about crime prevention products to keep you and your property safe. We have, and are holding, these 5 – 6 days per week. To find out when one of these is being held in your neighbourhood please contact us (see contact details above).

During September our Crime Prevention Pop ups will be promoting the safety campaigns of Darker nights, Be Seen Be Safe, Halloween & Bonfire nights. OWL will be circulating the Halloween Posters. They can be placed in the window so people will know a resident’s preference and those who would rather keep their doors closed on Halloween night and should not be disturbed. This will be reinforced by Police in Schools, shops & agencies within the Community Safety Partnerships. They will all be working together to promote safe Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations.

The clocks go back an hour on 26thth October this will mean lighter mornings, and evenings getting darker earlier, and we would like to remind residents of some general safety and security advice:

Home Security Ensure your property is locked and secured at all times, leave a light on when you are out, or use a time switch on an indoor light. Put a time switch on a radio that has been tuned in to a chat station, this will give the impression that the house is occupied. Fit security lighting, either dusk to dawn energy efficient lighting that will come on automatically as dusk sets in, or brighter passive infrared activated lighting drawing attention to movement. Ensure that gates or access to the rear of the house are locked and secure. Don’t forget to lock your shed as tools can be used to break in. Secure windows, paying particular attention to those on the ground floor and above flat roof areas. Use locks and bolts and keep your keys out of sight and out of reach. Property mark your valuables by using your postcode and your house number or name. Some items are unsuitable for marking so photograph them, with a ruler in view to show the scale During the first half of this year Citizens in Policing through Watch Schemes operated by OWL providing 828,492 voluntary hours in helping to prevent and reduce crime and disorder to support the Eastern Policing teams.

5 More from Moel Arthur

The Clwydian Archaeological Group is a group of amateur archaeologists, the majority of whom are over 50. Since 2011 we have been working on a site near Moel Arthur. Readers of Codgers Quarterly may remember an earlier report I wrote on a Bronze Age ‘burnt mound’ we discovered, the first to be found in north east Wales. During the course of last year, we opened a trench near the burnt mound, hoping to find the location of the fire in which stones were heated before being dropped into the pool to heat the water. The fire or fires would be close to the pool because our Bronze Age ancestors would no more want to carry hot stones very far than we would. We did not find any remains of the fire or fires but something much more interesting. Close by the mound we found the remains of a series of ovens. These were constructed by making a circle of withies which were bent to the middle and tied together. This made a frame for layers of clay to be built up until a ‘beehive’ structure was formed. What we actually uncovered were sets of post-holes where the willow or hazel rods had been inserted into the ground, there was also light- coloured material, almost certainly the debris left when the ovens collapsed or were demolished. By two large stones, which we believe to be the opening of an oven, we found a fan of darker material consistent with a fire having been raked out.

We sent charcoal samples away for radio-carbon dating, the results showed that the ovens were used around 7,580 years ago. This puts them in the Mesolithic era – the Middle Stone Age. This means that our group of amateur archaeologists has pushed back the date of human activity in the way beyond all previously established dates. We have discovered the very earliest evidence of activity by human beings in these hills. The Mesolithic date ties in with the numerous flints we have found around the area of our excavations over the years.

What were the ovens used for? We cannot be certain. The men and women who built the ovens were not farmers but hunter-gatherers, we do not know if people at this time used wild cereals to grind and bake bread, but they certainly did not cultivate grain, or anything else. The oven could have been used to cook meat, either game or larger animals brought down by hunting parties. Farming was brought to Britain by migrants around 4000 BC. The burnt mound was constructed around 2000 BC. So although only a few yards away the ovens are more than three thousand years older than the burnt mound. To give some idea of just how long ago the oven-builders lived: the last Ice Age finished here around four or five thousand years before the ovens were in use and the Egyptians were not to think of building their first pyramid for another 3,000 years.

Working on Moel Arthur can be hard work and we are exposed to all weathers without any shelter. The archaeology is fascinating and thought-provoking. Whenever I look at those lovely hills I remember that in the great scheme of things we are all just passers-by.

I wonder what traces will be found of us in seven and a half thousand years? ………Robert Moore

ALYN AND PROBUS CLUB

The Alyn and Deeside Probus Club meets for lunch on the first Tuesday of each month. After lunch, entertainment is provided by a speaker. Membership is made up of retired, professional men from all walks of life. Regular outings such as canal walks and visits to places of interest are arranged, and twice yearly we hold a Ladies Lunch when wives/partners are invited to join us. If you are interested in finding out more or would like to be our guest for lunch, please telephone Mike George on 01244-539034

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50+ ACTION GROUP UPDATE

Since our last edition of Codgers Quarterly the Group has met three times.

June 2016

Following a request by the Older People’s Commissioner’s Office, two members of her Policy Team visited to discuss the work they are doing regarding “Accessing G.P. Services” and to solicit our views. The group were characteristically forthright in voicing their experiences of bad practice, but thankfully there were also examples of problem free access to local doctors. Other matters concerned the successful Engagement Event held in Mostyn Community Centre , that contact had been made with the Health Board regarding the arrangements for future stakeholder meetings and. Pat Ashford reported that she had been invited to attend the Volfest event held by FLVC at Greenfield Heritage Park, where she had promoted the group and Codgers Quarterly. Following advice that, due to financial constraints, FCC would not be organising an event to celebrate the annual International Day for Older People on 1st October 2016, the group decided to organise their own event.

July 2016

Our visitor this month was Lorraine Cogsgrove of Arthritis Care who is herself significantly affected by arthritis , Lorraine was very passionate about campaigning for better recognition of the condition and how painful and debilitating it can be, for better and speedier diagnosis and referral to specialist rheumatologists. Other matters were the appointment by the Health Board of a dedicated person to develop policies for engaging with the public (an area of strong criticism); the group agreed that we need to monitor the success of this. “Brexit” was mentioned most worryingly the reports that some people appear to be taking the leave vote as a green light for racism. It was agreed that to try and clarify the mixed messages that we have been getting about the availability of toilets in council buildings for public use, we would contact FCC for specific locations and also details of those private businesses who have agreed to allow the public to use their loos.

August 2016

This month we welcomed Gina Edwards of the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU). Gina’s organisation supports victims of abuse who are 16 years of age and older, and she emphasised that, as men can also be victims of domestic abuse, her organisation’s help is open to both men and women. The group was disturbed to hear that 1 in every 4 people will experience domestic abuse at some time in their lives. The unit can be found at 104 Chester Road East, Deeside CH5 1QD ( but making an appointment is advised) and there is also a 24 hour freephone domestic abuse and sexual violence helpline on 0808 80 10 800. (We will return to the work of DASU in a future edition). Other issues raised included the lack of response from FCC regarding public access to toilets, the groups willingness to arrange an extraordinary meeting to accommodate a visit from FCC’s Chief Executive, and the loss of bus services in and Saltney Ferry.

I love being married. It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life. Rita Rudner -

7 CREDIT UNIONS

What are these?

A Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative, democratically controlled by it's members and operated for the purpose of promoting thrift and providing credit at competitive rates. As they are member-owned, the members are in control and have a say in how the Union is run, together with helping to develop the products and services that are required by the membership. They are ''not-for-profit'' organisations and any money that is made from loans is paid, after deduction of running-costs and the building-up of reserves, as a dividend rather than interest, to members.

Credit Unions in the UK. were first established in 1960, the first being in Derry, Northern Ireland. The Unions had evolved from the Friendly Society movement of the 18th. Century. Nowadays, there are Credit Unions in many parts of the world.

Here in Flintshire, we have our own Union:- the ''All Flintshire Credit Union'', the head office of which is in Holywell, but with various collection points including those in Mold, Buckley and Flint. The Union is run by volunteers for the benefit of local people and anyone can join.

The interest rate on loans is 1% per month – much cheaper than that charged by banks and loan companies. An annual dividend, based on deposited money, is normally paid and the rate is generally much better than the interest rate offered on normal bank current accounts. Also, your deposited money is just as safe as that held in a mainstream bank as it is similarly covered by the FSCS.

Should I join?

Why not, your money will be safe; you may apply, after an initial period, for a loan and you could be helping people less well-off than yourself. For further information, call in to one of the collection points or go to:- www.allflintshirecreditunion.co.uk or telephone 01352 715555 Thanks to the group’s Vice Chairman, Nick Woodward for kindly providing this information.

CINEMAS THAT CHESTER ONCE HAD-THEN LOST. chestercinemas.co.uk has been developed over the last few months by several dedicated enthusiasts who have far reaching connections with cinemas. It gives well researched details of each building, photographs and videos, which includes the Royalty Theatre. Updated constantly, and designed for all ages to enjoy, with particular appeal for the 50+ who are invited to share their memories of Chester cinemas

mailto:[email protected]

Eds. Note: I make no apology for including this as I am sure, like me, many of you have happily frequented some of these cinemas in your youth!

8 A Trip Down Memory Lane ....

I am from Liverpool and remember as a little girl Going out to play and taking jam going to the local park with my friends (we were al- butties for my dinner with my friend, lowed out to play then). The railway line was close and later on going to play in the woods and we loved to see the steam trains going by and the and on the beach. Going to see my driver waving to us. I also remem- grandparents and playing ber going to New Brighton on the under the house: the ferry and paddling in the outdoor house was on stilts! swimming pool.

One of my earliest memories is of Running in the fields playing hide feeding the horse that pulled the and seek, being rag & bone man’s cart. I would chased by my dad’s follow it for miles and then be geese, potato picking dropped off at the local police station. My and getting in the hay, brother would come to pick me up and I making bonfires and would deny knowing him! putting potatoes in the ash!

I was brought up largely by my grandparents to enable my mother to work. I spent many summer school holidays in my Grandad’s shed with the lawn mower! Being from a mining community in the North East (Seaham) we had holidays in Scarborough. The strange thing is, unlike most other places, Scarborough seems to remain the same over 50 years later; the North and South beaches, the fairground near the pier, the boat rides, the “SHUGGY BOATS” on the sand of the South shore; Peasholme park with it’s bathing lake and the winter gardens. I liked nothing better than to spend the entire day walking leading a donkey on the North beach sands. And the miniature railway! Our pleasures were largely outdoors (we were never allowed to bring friends into the house to play) and very simple—a box of chalks and a whip and top, or a set of jacks and fives could see us through the entire six weeks of summer holidays. Ed’s note: In the North East “Shuggy Boats” was the name given to Swingboats, Basically a suspended gondola manned by 2 people who each pulled alternatively on a rope to make the boat swing.

I remember Chapel Youth Club going for a visit to ; boys who knew us blackening our faces once underground.

Walking from Rhewl School to our new school in Bryn Pennant over 60 years ago.

(Apologies to the author but we could not read the name of the Chapel).

9 Out of the mouths of Babes ! UNWAITH ETO—ONCE AGAIN This is a True Story about my Daughter Zoe coming What goes round, comes round. home from Primary School and she told me This saying must be true. With vinyl records back in vogue Though some will think ‘that’s new’ ZOE :" Dad we have been doing Maths at School to- day " How long ago, the phonograph ME : "Have you Zoe, wow that is good " The moulded cylinder form Then for many, many years ZOE : " What is this Dad ?" and she made a cross sign 78 r.p.m. was the norm (Plus Sign ) ME : " I don't know Zoe, what does it mean" Singles and E.P. records Mono, then Stereo, came along ZOE : " It means add up Dad " Different styles of music ME : " Very Good " Many a choice of song ZOE : " What is this Dad ? " she asked making a hori- zontal movement which was - (Minus Sign ). Cassette tapes became popular The voice ‘selfies’ of the day ME : " I don't know Zoe " I think the messy tangling ZOE : "It means take away Dad" Sent them on their way

I thought that I would see how much she had learnt Mini discs you could record on and I asked her They didn’t last at all ME : " Zoe what does this mean making the sign of a Inventors and money-makers diagonal cross (Multiplication Sign ) Certainly had a ball

ZOE : It means that I got it wrong Dad " The compact disc has been the best Thanks to our member John Wiltshire. But has that met its fate? With all the changes of today It’s passed its sell-by date?

HALKYN & DISTRICT OVER 50’S Young folk use their i phones YouTube and the Cloud GROUP I’m not really into that We are a friendly group of over 50s. We meet Of which I don’t feel proud on the first Monday of each month in the Blue Technics have overtaken us Bell public house, Halkyn, CH8 8DL, from 2pm Adapt or you lose out to 4pm. Is that what we really want? A lot of us will shout We have speakers on various topics for approximately 1 hour, then have tea, coffee, Drag the old record player from the loft etc. Our Treasurer, Mr. Ron Thomas, informs And retrieve old L.P’s Enjoy your ‘Sixties’ music us of various outings, days out, theatre shows Which is sure to please etc. Our last outing was to Llangollen canal on a boat trip over the viaduct, and then into You must have ‘stuff’ you want to Llangollen to have lunch, and a walk by the play Which really is your passion river, (it was the warmest day of the year). Our It is not all revisiting next outing is to the Empire Hotel in Llandudno For now you are in fashion for an evening meal. Meira J. Henderson 4th August 2016 On Tuesday, 11th October, we will be celebrating 'Older People's Day' in the Halkyn village hall from 2pm to 4pm. There will be Before you criticise someone entertainment, refreshments etc.,. walk a mile in their shoes. We welcome new members so please come along or for more info please That way, you’ll be a mile contact Mr. Ron Thomas from them and you’ll have on 01352 781038 or Mary their shoes. Jack Handey. Broadbent on 01352 781412.

10 Chocolate Brownies

This recipe contains no flour so is great for anyone with wheat intolerance (but NOT if you have a nut allergy)

Ingredients 150g dark chocolate 100g unsalted butter 1tsp coffee essence (1 tsp of coffee granules dissolved in a little hot water will do!) 1tsp vanilla essence 100g ground almonds 175g castor sugar 4 egg whites 4 egg yolks Little icing sugar to dust the finished brownies Method Preheat the oven to 180oC. Lightly grease a shallow rectangular baking tray (about 25cm x 12cm). Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of boiling water, set aside to cool but not set.

Beat the butter and sugar well until creamed. This recipe is a Jones Gradually add the egg yolks and beat. Family favourite – original source Add the coffee and vanilla essence and beat. unknown’ Add the ground almonds and melted chocolate and beat. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff (they should stand up in peaks), then fold into the creamed mixture. Pour the mixture into the baking tray and cook in the centre of the oven for 25 – 35 minutes. The brownies will be lightly browned and spring back when pressed lightly, or test the centre with a skewer which should come out clean. Place the cooked brownies on a wire rack to cool. When cool, turn the brownies out and cut into rectangles about 5cm x 3cm. Dust lightly with icing sugar before serving.

RENT SMART WALES - LANDLORD REGISTRATION Under the requirements of Part 1 of the Housing (Wales) Act 2014 since 23 November 2015, all landlords operating in Wales must become registered. Landlords have a year to comply with this new obligation. In order to register a landlord must provide accurate and up-to-date information about themselves and their rental properties in Wales. If you are a landlord and have not yet registered all the relevant information to establish if the leg- islation applies to you and how to register if it does, can be found at https:// www.rentsmart.gov.wales/en/landlord/landlord-registration/ Note from the Editor— the above info was researched from the website after a mention on the TV news.

11 If you have a lump sum, are extra pension contributions a good investment?

Editor’s note: While the facts of the scheme can be verified on the Government website (cited) the comments in the final paragraphs should NOT in any way be taken to be financial advice as neither the contributor who is one of our readers, nor the 50+ Action Group have the required qualifications.

Until 5 April 2017 you’ll be able to apply to make a ‘Class 3A voluntary contribution’ to top up your State Pension by up to £25 per week. Calculate how much you’ll need to contribute. You must be entitled to the State Pension and either:  a man born before 6 April 1951 a woman born before 6 April 1953

You can choose to top up your State Pension by between £1 and £25 per week. How much you’ll need to contribute depends on:

 how much extra pension you want to get each week how old you are when you make the contribution

Find out more and calculate how much you should contribute at: https://www.gov.uk/state-pension -topup

“My guess, looking at the figures is that the government have set the cost of this investment to be a "break even" investment for themselves against an expected uptake that's sufficiently large to even out statistical variance. That effectively leaves you betting against them. If you live longer than average you will win. I have no financial expertise to give advice and would not seek to do so. I just have a mathematical background to look at the numbers and think that this scheme should be brought to peoples attention for consideration.

People must of course make their own decision about whether it is worth making this large investment and seek professional advice before they do so. It is a government scheme with all the implications of that. The consideration is complicated and should take into account that the state pension currently has a triple lock on the annual increase (the state pension rises in line with either earnings, inflation or by 2.5 per cent, whichever is highest). It is further complicated because this may be changed to a double lock losing the 2.5 per cent guarantee”.

FLINTSHIRE DIABETES UK GROUP Do you have diabetes or care for someone with diabetes, then you should find our free talk on

'Diabetes and the Festive Season', especially useful at this time of the year. The guest speaker is dietician Vicky Williams. We look forward to seeing you at St David's Park Hotel, on Tuesday 1st November at 7.30 p.m. More information about this local support group can found at http://flintshire.diabetesukgroup.org/

12 VOLFEST 2016

On 8th June Flintshire Local Voluntary Council (FLVC) held Volfest 2016 their annual celebration of Volunteers and Volunteering at Greenfield Heritage Park. I was lucky enough to be invited to join the OWL team for the day a further extension of the support that they give to Codgers Quarterly.

I was privileged to be in the company of representatives of some of the over 1,000 plus voluntary organisations, charities and community groups who exist in the county due to the unpaid efforts of volunteers of all ages.

After an introduction and welcome we were split into 2 groups and each treated to a short tour of different areas of Greenfield Park. Our group visited the reconstructed bottling plant and the wooden clad (very aesthetically pleasing) steam engine that powers the plant , and we had interesting and informative talks with the volunteers who man the machinery (the only difference between men and boys is the size of their toys!). This was followed by a visit to the onsite blacksmith’s shop where I was very pleasantly surprised to find that one of the volunteer smiths was Reece Browne, a colleague from the 50+ Action Group (Flintshire)!

Following this we were treated to a tasty buffet lunch and the presentation of certificates to the volunteering organisations present. Later stalls were made available for those organisations to advertise their services and network amongst themselves and the general public who visited the event.

I am very grateful to Denise and the OWL team for giving me the opportunity to promote the 50+ Action Group and this newsletter and also to see the beautiful Greenfield Park.

Below; pictures of Pat Ashford, the OWL team and Reece Brown.

ARTHRITIS CARE Our July meeting was pleased to welcome Lorraine Cosgrove to speak to us about the valuable work undertaken by Arthritis Care and the services and information they provide. A stated aim of the charity is to enable those affected by the condition to “better manage their condition and improve their quality of life”. As someone whose own life has been affected, Lorraine was passionate about the need for the condition to be taken seriously and for better diagnosis and referral to specialist rheumatologists. She also surprised us by informing us that there are at least 200 types of arthritis including rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and ankylosing spondylitis. Numerous booklets and information leaflets which include benefits which may be available can be found at www.arthritiscare.org.uk. There is a free and confidential helpline in operation Monday – Friday from 10am – 4pm on 0808 800 4050, or they can be contacted via e mail at [email protected]

13

MOSTYN ENGAGEMENT EVENT

On 9th June 2016 the 50+ Action Group (Flintshire) hosted their most successful coffee morning yet when they took up the invitation to use Mostyn Community Centre as the venue. We were warmly welcomed by the centre treasurer Vera Williams who was happy for us to use all the facilities the centre has to offer. Our guests were very sociable and enjoyed the refreshments on offer and the free raffle.

The purpose of the event was to promote the work of the 50+ Action Group (Flintshire) including the Codgers Quarterly newsletter, invite new membership and relationships and to further the initiative to make Flintshire “Age Friendly”. It was very noticeable from the interaction of the “locals” that the Mostyn area is a very close knit community and the event gave them and the local councillors who attended, an opportunity to welcome, and introduce themselves to, new arrivals in the area. Our guests were in agreement that the sense of community makes Mostyn a good place to grow older, but that the lack of public transport especially for shopping trips and medical appointments, does leave room for improvement. The closure of public toilets was also a matter of quite passionate concern.

The centre manager was happy for us to see all of the facilities on offer, including a computer for public use, and said that she would welcome more bookings. If you or your organisation are interested in booking the centre or would like more information please contact Vera Williams on 01745 560522 or Sue Rowlands on 01745 560807.

Atlantic Convoy hero honoured by Russian Embassy A Shotton man has been honoured for his courage and bravery during the Second World War when representatives from the Russian Embassy in London presented him with a medal for his service on the Atlantic Convoys 90-year-old Mr William Gilbert Butler (known as Gilbert) was presented with the Medal of Ushakov when a party from the Russian Embassy in London visited the Alyn Extra Care Housing Scheme in Shotton. Between 1941 and 1945 veterans endured freezing weather conditions and the continual threat of bombardment from German torpedoes on board the Arctic convoys, which were responsible for delivering supplies to Soviet forces. The convoys’ journeys were considered so treacherous that Winston Churchill referred to each of the missions as “the worst journey in the world”. Many thousands of sailors died as ships were lost. An ancient law previously prevented Royal Navy mariners from accepting foreign military decorations, however an exception was granted by the British Government in 2013 and the Russian Embassy in London has since tracked down veterans across the UK to ensure their courage and bravery is honoured. Ellen Wharton, Extra Care Manager at Llys Eleanor said: “Seeing Gilbert stand up so straight and proud out of his wheelchair, to accept his medal standing, was one of the most emotional things I have ever witnessed. It was a privilege and an honour to have been present, and it is humbling to learn of everything that Gilbert and all those who served on the convoys did for the generations that followed.” Mr Butler with his daughters Margaret Amos and Annette Ellis as the medal was presented

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Driving change to improve GP services in Wales

I want to use my column in this edition to thank older people from across Flintshire, and across Wales, who responded to my call for evidence as part of my work to ensure that GP services in Wales are accessible and meet people’s needs. Wherever I go in Wales, older people are always keen to discuss the GP services in their area with me. And whilst I have heard about many positive experiences and examples of good practice, many of the older people I have spoken to have highlighted the challenges they face when they need to use GP services. That is why I am undertaking this work to examine our GP services, work that will not only clearly represent the voices and experiences of older people, but will also set out the ways in which they would like GP services to be delivered in Wales. The response has been truly outstanding – over 1,000 older people completed questionnaires to share their experiences of accessing and using GP services, whilst over 600 took part in 40 focus group sessions held to hear directly from older people. The questionnaires and focus group sessions covered a wide range of topics, including the appointments booking process, surgery accessibility and environment, and the ways that GPs, practice nurses and other surgery staff interact with patients during appointments. In addition to specific sessions to capture the experiences of Welsh speakers, a number of focus group sessions were also targeted at older people with ‘protected characteristics’, aimed at older people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, older people with disabilities and older people with sensory loss. My team and I are currently analysing the questionnaire responses and the evidence gathered during the focus groups and will form the basis of a report, due to be published in February 2017, that will identify both good practice and areas in which improvements are needed. I will also use my statutory powers to publish formal guidance for Health Boards alongside my findings, which they must have regard for when planning and commissioning GP services. GP services are central to the health and wellbeing of our older people and provide essential links to wider health care services so it is essential that the services commissioned by our Health Boards meet the needs of the communities they serve effectively. That is why I am delighted that such a large number of older people have taken part in this work and will play a key role in helping to shape the future of GP services in Wales. Sarah Rochira—Older People’s Commissioner for Wales …... Contact details: www.olderpeoplewales.com ………...or e mail [email protected] Tel: 08442 640670 or 02920 445030

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Age Connects North East Wales now has a range of activities at Lewis House, Swan Street, Flint.

Monday Computer Class 11.00 -12.00 Booking essential £2

Coffee Afternoon 1.30 -3.30 £1 for a drink and cake

Tuesday Tai Chi 2pm £2.50

Wednesday Mens Group 10.30am £2.00

To book or for more information please phone 08450 549969.

Sarah Kennedy-Ratcliffe is running in 4 marathons this year to raise money for Age Connects North East Wales. All money raised will go towards helping the charity maintain its many services which include information and advice, benefit claims, shopping and befriending services.

Sarah completed the Manchester marathon on the 10th April, the Edinburgh marathon on the 29th May and the Wales marathon in Tenby on the 10th July. Her last marathon is in Dublin on the 30th October.

To sponsor Sarah please text RUNS04 £4 to 70070 or go to www.totalgiving.co.uk/mypage/ skennedyratcliffe

THE COACH

At one point during a game, the coach called one of his 9-year-old baseball players aside and asked, "Do you understand what co-operation is? What a team is?"

"Yes, coach", replied the little boy.

"Do you understand that what matters is whether we win or lose together as a team?"

The little boy nodded in the affirmative.

"So," the coach continued, "I'm sure you know, when an out is called, you shouldn't argue, curse, attack the umpire, or call him rude names. Do you understand all that?"

Again, the little boy nodded in the affirmative.

The coach continued, "And when I take you out of the game so that another boy gets a chance to play, it's not a dumb ass decision or that the coach is an idiot - is it?"

"No, coach."

"Good", said the coach. "Now go over there and explain all that to your grandmother.

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Cllr Christine Jones, Older People’s Champion

In the last edition, I was pleased to report the opening of our

6th Memory Café in Flintshire in Sealand on 27th June. Friday August 5th saw the 1st birthday of our Memory Café in

Holywell. Birthday celebrations included a trip down memory lane to the seaside with our beach scene REM Pod and included a picnic of sandwiches, cake and an ice-cream, and

of course the obligatory sticks of rock and candy floss and a ‘nobbly knees’ competition! Over the last year, we have seen our attendance numbers grow from 3 or 4 to regular numbers of around 30. This success is down to the enthusiasm and support of both staff and volunteers and I would like to express my thanks for the many donations we have received both in people’s time, and the contributions from local businesses. For a full list of café’s and their opening times contact the First Contact team on 01352 803444 or visit https:// www.dewis.wales/ and enter ‘memory’ in your search. Following the series of ‘Let’s Talk about Dementia’ plays we held across the county earlier this year, we continue to raise awareness and understanding of dementia and are providing opportunities for all our staff in Social Services to attend a Dementia Friends session at work. These sessions are important to everyone within our community, our FCC services and our own families. I know we have excellent officers and staff within Social Services and I appreciate their support in attending and becoming a Dementia Friend. Transport is often raised by the individuals and groups that I meet in my work and is key to ensuring the independence and wellbeing of older people. So it is welcome news that the council’s Integrated Transport Unit has carried out a review of transport across the county and is working with Town and Community councils to develop an integrated community transport scheme. 21 Town and Community Councils across Flintshire have expressed an interest in developing a community based transport scheme that will link in with the core network of commercial bus routes and train services. A series of ‘drop in’ events will be held across the County to engage with the wider community and stakeholders to explain how people can get involved in the project, understand the demand and capacity within the areas and what support may be required in setting up the new initiatives. If you would like to find out more, contact your local Town & Community Council in the first instance. For general enquiries about the review, please contact the Integrated Transport Unit – [email protected] Falls Prevention is one of the 5 priority areas in our Ageing Well in Flintshire plan. Evidence shows that falls are a major cause of disability and death in older people and can have a significant impact on wellbeing through loss of confidence and independence. Ageing Well in Wales is launching ‘Steady on… Stay Safe’ a national falls awareness campaign which aims to highlight three simple ways you can reduce the risk of falling for yourself, your friends, your family and your neighbours:

 Stay active and strong – staying active helps maintain strength and balance and can significantly reduce your risk of falling

 If you fall, tell someone – a history of falls could be an indication that something is wrong and is also a sign of increased risk of falling in the future. It is therefore important to investigate the cause to help prevent further falls.

Continued on page 18

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 Be aware of trip hazards in and outside the home – wearing sensible footwear, regular eyesight tests and ensuring halls and stairs are well lit can all help to reduce the risks of falling, and any trip hazards on the street where you live, such as uneven paving should be reported to your local council. In Flintshire contact Streetscene on 01352 701234 or email [email protected] We are keen to encourage groups in Flintshire to get involved in this campaign. You could help by ordering a campaign pack which provides you all the resources you need to raise awareness of the risks of falling. For more information visit: www.ageingwellinwales.com/SteadyOn, and to get involved email [email protected] or phone 02920 445030 The article on page 2 by Celia Drew, Falls Prevention Coordinator provides more detailed information and advice on preventing falls. If you have any concerns you wish to raise or good news to share, please contact me by email: [email protected] or telephone 01244 811556

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF OLDER PERSONS - Ist OCTOBER 2016

The theme of the World Health Organisation’s International Day of Older Persons for 2016 is "Take A Stand Against Ageism". "Combat ageism"

Age-based stereotypes influence behaviours, policy development and even research. Addressing these must lie at the core of any public-health response to population ageing. (World Report on Ageing and Health)

INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR OLDER PEOPLE CELEBRATION EVENTS:

3rd OCTOBER 2016

The 50+ Action Group are holding an event to celebrate International Day for Older People on Monday 3rd October. The event will take place at the Civic Hall in Connah’s Quay from 10 – 2 pm, with a light lunch provided free of charge. Entertainment will be provided along the theme of reminiscence. There will also be a raffle.

Booking is essential for this event in order for refreshments to be arranged. If you would like to come along, please contact the Older Peoples Engagement Worker Ella Jackson on 01352 708118 or 07793 389543 or [email protected]

6th OCTOBER 2016 Greenfield Lunch Club will be celebrating International Older Persons Day, from 12-3.30pm and will incorporate a lunch consisting of two courses and refreshments for £3.50. During the afternoon there will be a raffle and a chance to meet representatives from various organisations and charities. There will be a talk about the Fare Share Scheme of which GF lunch club are associate members. For more information or to book a lunch at the event please call Vera Davey on 01352 705932 or lead volunteer Sheena Wallbanks on 01352 715906. at Greenfield Community Centre, School Lane, Greenfield, Holywell, Clwyd, CH8 7HR

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11th OCTOBER 2016 The Halkyn 50+ Group are also holding an event to recognise International Day for Older Peo- ple. This is being held on Tuesday 11th October at Halkyn village Hall from 2 pm – 4 pm. Entertain- ment and refreshments will be provided. For more information, please contact Mr. Ron Thomas on 01352 781038 or Mary Broadbent on 01352 781412.

IS YOUR GROUP PLANNING AN EVENT?

If your group is thinking of holding an event to celebrate International Day for Older people it is obviously too late for this edition of Codgers Quarterly, but it could still be advertised through Flintshire’s older people's networks. If you would like to take advantage of this offer please contact the Older Peoples Engagement Worker Ella Jackson on 01352 708118 or 07793 389543

or e mail [email protected]

AGE – BE PROUD ! BOB MANIFOLD

Age is just a number Further to the mention of Bob Manifold in Wrinkles are laughter lines your excellent Codger's Quarterly (Issue 7) I Age is worth bragging about thought your readers might like to know that Because of the experience and time. we have an original recording of Bob made in the 1980's as part of the Flintshire Memories Every person is a diary collection. Copies of the recording can be Because the knowledge that you hold requested for loan in the same way as a Future generations will not see library book, just pop in and listen to this Unless that they are told. voice from a bygone era. The recordings are held in our @nswers department, which is You hold the key to the past the reference part of Mold Library, upstairs Because of all the things you have seen from the lending Library. The recording is Your memories are worth more than jewels part of a project made in the 1980’s which Worn by any queen. form a fascinating collection of reminiscences from a by-gone era. Written by Peter Wood Our thanks to a member of the Mold Library & Museum Service for this 25th February 2015. Mold Library, Museum and Flintshire If you write poetry, serious or humorous, and would like Connects Earl Road Mold Flintshire CH7 us to consider your work for inclusion in this newsletter 1AP Tel: 01352 754791 Fax: 01352 707207: please forward it to [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected]

The views expressed in this newsletter are those of the individuals and not necessarily those of the 50+ Action Group (Flintshire). However, the Editor does reserve the right to “ slice, dice and make very nice” i.e. to amend content as she deems appropriate!

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September’s the month to make new friends Oddfellows Friendship Month

If your social life’s in need of a shake-up, or you’re ready to start adding some extra names to your contacts book, then the Oddfellows Deeside Branch has declared September a great time to take action and make new friends.

As part of its annual Friendship Month campaign, throughout September the local Society will be hosting several special events, which include coffee mornings, lunches, quiz with fish & chips supper and Strictly Tea Dance, for people to come together locally, have fun and try something new.

Denise Turner Branch Secretary said “Our Friendship Month campaign is in its seventh year now. It’s our way of reminding people just how important it is to have the support of friends around you. They really do make the good times better and the hard times easier.

“Friendships often start as a result of sharing a fun experience or by learning something together, so our events hope to provide that opportunity in a really easy, relaxed way.”

The Oddfellows’ Friendship Month events are open to everyone and include:

 Coffee mornings every Thursday at Oddfellows Hall, 65 High Street Saltney CH4 8SG 10.30am 50p for refreshments

 Quiz night with fish & chip supper at Oddfellows Hall, 65 High Street Saltney CH4 8SG Saturday 17 September 7pm £5.50 per head.

 Strictly Tea Dance at Oddfellows Hall, 65 High Street Saltney CH4 8SG Thursday 29 September 1pm till 3pm. This event is free.

Based in Saltney the Society’s members regularly get together to enjoy social events such as talks and trips out, lunches, walks, scrabble club and coffee mornings.

The Oddfellows is also offering a chance to win a luxury afternoon tea for two and £100 spending money in a free prize draw on its campaign website at www.friendshipmonth.com.

To find out more about these and other events call Denise Turner on 01244 675757 or e mail [email protected]

Friends show their love in times of trouble, not in happiness.

Euripides

Intellectual joke ……...Euripides - Eumendes!

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