Conference breaks down barriers

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin broke down barriers and discovered new ways to help local older people at our conference this month.

‘Sex and Drugs and Rock & Roll: the changing face old age’ broke social norms and created an open dialog on some often considered private subjects such as relationships, sexual health and wellbeing, drug use and addiction in later life.

Speakers on the day included Dr David Lee and Professor Josie Tetley from Manchester Metropolitan University, authors of the popular Valentine’s Day report ‘How long will I love you? Sex and intimacy in later life’; Professor Tony Elliot, Clinical Director for older adult services in South Staffordshire & Shropshire, who discussed substance misuse among older adults; and Trelawney Kerrigan from Dating Options, an expert on dating safely.

Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin said: ‘It was a very proud moment to see our organisation provide an open forum to discuss sensitive issues that affect older people. The outcomes will help us develop new ways to support older people and shape the way we support them in the future.’

Award winning BBC Radio 6 Music DJ Liz Kershaw chaired the conference, provided an opening speech on her perception of ageing, and shared her personal stories on how she came to be involved with Age UK. In true Liz Kershaw style, she was warm, energetic and provided some comedic moments that helped lighten the tone from what could have been quite depressing topics to discuss.

The conference was a big success, welcoming representatives from over 30 local organisations and the feedback was very positive, one attendee said: ‘The very open talks about sex/intimacy in older age helped me over my rather judgemental, squeamish attitude to the subject, thanks!’ Plans are already underway for our next conference in 2021 during our 70th anniversary year.