People from across Torbay have been spilling the beans with the Ageing Well team on what life is really like for over 50s during a series of ‘Food for Thought’ events.

Ageing Well Torbay, a six year Big Lottery funded project, will be using feedback from the recent ‘Food For Thought’ participation events to decide on the next two years of focus for their activities. To capture the views of as many people as possible, twenty events were held in churches, pubs, community centres, hotels, halls and even a stately home, in neighbourhoods across Brixham, Paignton and Torquay.

Although consultation officially closes on the 27^th February, the team have already heard from hundreds of people through the events, feedback postcards and an online survey but are encouraging even more individuals to get involved. After all of the data has been collected a report will be made available.

The Ageing Well Torbay programme has been running for two years, working with seven partner agencies to reduce isolation and loneliness in people over the age of 50. The programme also runs a yearly Ageing Well Festival, which is curated by a panel of older people. Last years’ event proved to be so successful that the group have now decided to introduce a Symposium in May, which will be held at Central Church, Torquay.

Sue McDermott, Programme Manager for Ageing Well Torbay says “A number of reoccurring themes have emerged from the consultations including transport issues and more affordable activities and social events, particularly for older men. As well as problems facing people, we are also hearing a strong message that older people want to be part of the solution to loneliness amongst their peer group, with ideas on how to do that, such as neighbourly driving and writing their own guide to retirement.”