If you’re over 50 and looking for something new to do, then joining your nearest older people’s forum could be for you. There are forums across the county and they’re a great way to find out about local events, socials, and activities. They’re also a way to learn more about health and social care, as well as helping to influence the work of the local NHS and East Sussex County Council. Even better, they’re free, easy to join, and you can choose how much to get involved!

Once you join, you’ll be sent a regular newsletter from your local forum with news and events from your area. You’ll also be amongst the first to hear about the annual ‘Full of Life Festival’ programme.’

Every year the forums work with East Sussex County Council to put on the ‘Full of Life Festival’, which runs during September and October to celebrate Older People’s Day. The festival is packed full of things to do, from coffee meet ups, film screenings, creative sessions, wellbeing workshops and lunches, to countryside walks, museum trips, employment support sessions, and much more.

As well as being kept up to date on what’s going on, if you want to get more involved you can find out about volunteer opportunities with your forum. This could be things like helping to plan the annual festival, supporting with events, running coffee mornings, and producing newsletters. You could also help gather the views of older people on issues that affect them, which are then shared with policy makers and service providers. Some forums have formed special interest groups that reflect the concerns of their local members, like health and well-being.

Each forum is led by a committee of members and all the local forums are part of what’s called the ‘East Sussex Seniors Association’ (ESSA). ESSA is an independent organisation that helps to provide a voice to those in East Sussex aged 50 or over, helping them to influence decision-makers on issues which affect their everyday lives. The forums and ESSA each receive a small grant from East Sussex County Council to help with running costs, but they are run by enthusiastic volunteers.

Lin Neeve, Chair of ESSA, says:

‘‘I would definitely encourage anyone local who is over 50 to consider getting involved in their nearest forum and becoming a voice for older people. We have groups in Eastbourne, Hastings, Seaford, Wealden, Rother, Lewes, and Hastings Older People’s Ethnic Group. As a forum member, you can stay connected with your community, take part in social activities, and learn more about local health and care services. We always look forward to welcoming new people.”

Find your nearest forum and how to join: Older people’s forums | East Sussex County Council