We hear a lot at the moment about older people and loneliness and what can be done to help.

I’ve just returned from a town in Devon where Age Concern and the local council have jointly established an over 60’s centre and it was a revelation to me to see it in action. Attractive premises with refreshments, newspapers, games but most of all a place for people to meet each other and socialise. It was very popular. I’m thinking of the alternatives of being stuck at home and fed up on those cold, wet wintry days when it gets dark early OR having the chance to go down to the High Street to play cards or chess and have a chat. I know which I’d choose!

If you think this sounds sensible then please ask your council to investigate if we could do something similar in our towns.

Philip Parry

South West Herts Labour Party