Local MP Alan Mak has encouraged residents to attend his fourth Community Groups and Older Persons Information Fair which is returning next month to central Havant.
The popular event regularly attracts more than 1,000 visitors and will once again be held at the Meridian Centre in Havant on Thursday 4 July from 10am to 2pm.
This year it is expected to feature around 40 exhibitors – those confirmed as attending include Age UK, Hampshire Constabulary, Diabetes UK, Hampshire County Council, Citizens Advice Havant, Barclays, Hayling Island Choir, SGN, Action on Hearing Loss and the Havant Borough Council Get up and Go Team. Stalls will be located both on the ground floor and upstairs inside the Beacon Centre.
Alan said: “After the success of my third Community Groups and Older Persons Fair at the Meridian Centre I decided to bring it back once again to this central Havant location. It should be a great day showcasing the very best of what is on offer for residents in the community while also signposting essential services.
“So whether you are interested in joining a club or would like to find out more about what support is available in the community, I encourage you to come along.”
As with previous years there will still be a focus on providing advice for senior citizens. Older people, carers, family, neighbours and friends will be able to speak to a range of specialist organisations, businesses, government agencies and community groups that serve or help older people.
Residents can ask questions about health, wellbeing or benefits in addition to finding out about activities.
Alan added: “I fully appreciate the hard work and contribution to society made by our older residents, with many of them now 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 local MP.”
There will be a chance for residents to become a Dementia Friend, with a session being run by Dementia Friendly Havant at 11am inside the Beacon. Becoming a Dementia Friend helps people to understand what it is like to live with dementia, and encourages them to consider ways in which they might be able to be more supportive and inclusive.
Duncan Cameron from Right at Home and part of Dementia Friendly Havant said: “I am delighted that Alan is once again supporting Dementia Friendly Havant at his Community Groups and Older Persons Fair. We have the aim to make Havant a Dementia Friendly Town, so if you are interested in supporting our initiative or becoming a Dementia Friend please come on the day.”
There is still space for exhibitors, if you are interested in exhibiting, email [email protected]
