Advantage magazine summer 2015 issue 43

Advantage

Age Scotland’s magazine: summer 2015, issue 43

Winners of our first photo competition

Walking Football p16 All aboard The Food Train p18 Meet the Silver Line volunteers p9

Advantage is the Age Scotland magazine that provides information, inspiration and ideas to empower Scotland’s older people, their friends, families and carers.

p 4

News

p 7

Calendar

p 8 Enterprise p 9

Silver Line Sco tland

p 10 Inform

p 18 Inspire p 20 Get Involved p 24 Going Local p 28 Clubs Corner p 29 Soap Box p 30 Interview If you have news, events or issues that you would like Advantage to cover, please get in touch. We would also welcome ideas on how we might improve the magazine.

Advantage is part funded by a grant from the Scottish Government. Age Scotland aims to ensure information is accurate at time of production and cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions.

Email: advantage@agescotland.org.uk Telephone: 0333 323 2400 Write to:

Advantage, Age Scotland Causewayside House 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR

Age Scotland, part of the Age Network, is an independent charity dedicated to improving the later lives of everyone on the ageing journey, within a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland. Registration Number: 153343 Charity Number SC010100. Registered Office: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR.

ISSN 1747-4515

Foreword

foreword

e ecutiv x E f e i h C Brian Sloan, Hi Everyone, It seems that every time I sit down to write this I get to tell you about an exciting first from Age Scotland and this issue of Advantage is no different! Our cover picture depicts the winner of Age Scotland’s inaugural photo competition, ‘The Potter’. This fantastic entry came to us via Ken Lindsay from Giffnock and really depicted the essence of what we were looking for from the competition – a fantastic photo showing someone loving later life. That said, it was not just Ken’s photo that did this and, with 200 plus photos entered, picking a winner was no mean feat. Some of the other winners and finalists can be found on page 10 and all the finalists can be viewed in the photo albums of our Facebook page.

An exciting development in the work of Age Scotland has come from a grant from the Roberston Trust and Scottish Government. We will soon be employing two dedicated Community Developement Officers to help support the Men’s Sheds movement across Scotland.

Along with this we also have a grants pot solely to support new sheds so please do get in touch if you’re interested. Details can be found on page 14.

Another venture, which is very close to my heart, is our work to encourage Walking Football in Scotland.

We’ve partnered with Inverness Caledonian Thistle to start the first team in the Highlands and on the inside back pages you can read an interview with the Chairman of the Scottish Professional Football League

Trust, who are our partners in creating the Walking Football Festival. This along with Men’s Sheds provides incredible opportunities to have an impact on the lives of socially isolated men across Scotland.

There’s too much in this edition of Advantage for me to go in to detail here but there’s the usual mix of information about hot issues like pensions and benefits as well as the changes that are happening in Scotland due to the Smith Commission. In addition there’s an update on some of our member groups and how to get involved more with Age Scotland which I really would you encourage you to do.

I hope you enjoy our Summer issue, and look forward to seeing you at one of our events in the near future! As always, we’d love to know what you think about the magazine. If you have any projects, stories or campaigns you’d like us to help showcase, you can get in touch with the team behind Advantage by either writing to us at 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh, EH9 1PR, or emailing advantage@agescotland.org.uk.

Bye for now,

Brian Sloan

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news

Walk in Our Shoes We want to say a big thank you and well done to all the pupils and teachers of Kinloch Rannoch Primary School for taking part in our Walk in our shoes campaign.

ek Young, giving evidence fficer, Der olicy O P Social Isolation Inquir d n e g la y the A and Scot anel to p e Age h t f o art as p

Scottish Parliament Equal Opportunities Committee investigates Age and Social Isolation Good social relationships are vital for our wellbeing.

This is the clear conclusion of a mounting body of recent social science research. Yet one in ten people aged 65 and over say that they feel lonely most or all of the time: in Scotland this is at least 80,000 older people. Because loneliness is likely to be hidden, the problem could be far worse than we think.

Walk in our shoes, Act on our issues is an activity community groups and schools can take part in to identify barriers to older people’s inclusion in their neighbourhood, and to get support from local decision makers for removing these barriers. It’s particularly effective as a basis for inter-generational community action.

It was great to see the kids engaging with their local community and identifying hazards that were then taken up by the local councillors to be fixed. If you’re interested in taking part, details can be found along with a video from Kinloch Rannoch at www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/get-involved/campaignwith-us/walk-in-our-shoes-act-on-our-issues/

Loneliness is complex to understand and detect though. The existing evidence points to difficulties people have in managing key transitions in their life – bereavement is an obvious one, but other factors include grown-up children leaving the family home or moving further away, retirement, and a loss of mobility leaving someone more tied to their home.

Last year, the Scottish Parliament’s Equal Opportunities Committee decided to hold an inquiry into age and social isolation – the first formal parliamentary examination of loneliness anywhere in the world.

Age Scotland helped the Committee to define the scope of the inquiry and was one of the first organisations to give evidence. We called for more support for effective interventions, for more research to understand the issue and target resources, but also a formal recognition by all health authorities that loneliness is a major factor for health and wellbeing.

For updates email policycomms@agescotland.org.uk.

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Sign up for e-news at www.agescotland.org.uk

news

Big Bag Challenge

We want to say a big thank you to all those who took part in our Big Bag Challenge to collect a many bags of donations in two weeks as possible. Our shops can only function through the generous donations that we get every day from people all across Scotland.

With summer approaching what better time to have that big clear out that you’ve been putting off and our shops will be waiting for your donations! To find your nearest Age Scotland charity shop visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/about-us/our-shops/ find-your-nearest-shop/

The Smith Commission – what it means for you Following last September’s independence referendum, a cross-party commission, chaired by Lord Smith of Kelvin, was formed. Working extremely quickly, it produced a report recommending new powers for Scotland within the UK, including some tax and welfare responsibilities. Pensions and related benefits would remain reserved, but the Scottish Parliament and Government would take on Attendance and Carers’ Allowances.

Following the election result the Scottish Government are pushing for further devolution of powers which the SNP called for in their manifesto. Subsequently, the Prime Minister has met with the First Minister in Scotland and has said that he is open to suggestions about further devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament.

There are implications for older people and Age Scotland itself. Additional power offers the opportunity to change policy to benefit older people, which Age Scotland will be pushing for. However, we will only do so in consultation with our members across Scotland to ensure that we continue to focus on issues that will help to make Scotland a place where everyone can love later life.

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news Over the course of the campaign we distributed hundreds of information packs and if you don’t have one, don’t worry, you can still access all the information on our website at www.ageuk.org.uk/ scotland/money-matters/power-of-attorney/.

Falkirk Later Life Information Centre 75 talks in Edinburgh one of her livering e d a cc Rebe

Power of Attorney update Age Scotland has been celebrating the success of our Power of Attorney (PoA) campaign now that has now come to a close. The aim of the PoA campaign was to raise awareness and promote the use of them throughout Scotland. Knowledge and understanding of PoA will enable older people and those planning for later life to make positive choices for their future.

Rebecca Dickson, who ran the project for Age Scotland, travelled the country delivering 75 talks or workshops to over 1,100 people in just six months. During that time she helped to identify a number of issues but chief among those was the difference between a Power of Attorney and a Will and the importance of sorting both and not one or the other.

cal from lo tives a t n rese Rep

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Age Scotland was pleased to work with The Solicitors for Older People Scotland (SOPS) to launch a new venture in Falkirk to support older people. The Later Life Information Centre on Upper Newmarket Street is the first of its kind in Scotland.

The Later Life Information Centre invites people to walk in without any prior appointment to access a range of information on later life ranging from legal matters through to healthy eating.

The office is staffed from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and contains lots of useful information and materials. Staff can also signpost callers to sources of specific advice as appropriate. You can call the centre on 01324 620 882.

The centre was officially opened by Age Scotland’s Chief Executive Brian Sloan and David Borrowman from SOPS with guests invited from local member groups and organisations.

ns came to the centre for its official openin organisatio g by Age S cotland C hief Exec utive, Bri an S

Email your events to advantage@agescotland.org.uk

loan

calendar 2015 MAY The Big Knit - OCT We are delighted that this joint campaign between Innocent drinks and our partner charity Age UK raised over £11,000 last year for Age Scotland.

We are again calling on all nimble-fingered knitters to show off their talent while supporting Age Scotland’s work, by creating little woolly hats to dress up innocent smoothie bottles. As always they will be sold in shops across the country and 25p from each sale will be donated

by Innocent to help fund our vital work.

Contact us for more information and your free hat pattern on 0333 323 2400 or fundraising@agescotland.org.uk

August 2015 26 Golf Day Deer Park Country Club, Livingston We are holding a fantastic Golf Day at Deer Park Country Club in Livingston. To enter a team of four costs £375. Do you know of any keen golfers who might be interested?

For more information contact Funding Development Manager, Alisdair Caulfield on 0333 323 2400 or alisdair.caulfield@agescotland.org.uk

September 2015 27 Loch Ness Marathon Inverness We are delighted to have four charity assured places in this year’s Loch Ness Marathon.

If a marathon is too much, runners can take part in the 10k or 5k events and there is even a Wee Nessie, for the under 5’s!

Do you know anyone who might like to take part for Age Scotland?

We can give them a sponsor pack, t-shirt and lots of support.

For more information contact Events and Community Fundraiser, Amy Telford on 0131 668 8020 or amy.telford@agescotland.org.uk You can also visit: www.lochnessmarathon.com

Email your events to advantage@agescotland.org.uk

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For a no obligation quote, visit:

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www.agescotland.org.uk/products Buying through Age Scotland helps us make later life a better life Age UK Home, Car and Travel Insurance are provided by Ageas Insurance Limited.

Gas and Electricity is provided by E.ON Energy Solutions Limited.

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Age Scotland is a registered trademark. The use of the name and logo Age Scotland is done so under a licence agreement between Age Scotland and Age Scotland Enterprises Limited, its commercial services arm. Net profits are split between Age Scotland and Age UK. Age Scotland Enterprises Limited is a joint venture trading company owned by Age Scotland (registered charity number SC010100) and Age UK Enterprises Limited. Age UK Enterprises Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Age UK (registered in Scotland number SC199856).

Promoter: Age Scotland Enterprises Ltd, Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PR. MP3168V3JUL14

Call Silver Line Scotland on 0800 4 70 80 90

inform

400,000 calls and counting!

Silver Line Scotland, as part of UK-wide charity The Silver Line, has reached the incredible milestone of over 400,000 calls from its centres in Preston and Edinburgh since launching in November 2013. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible work of our amazing staff and volunteers.

For Advantage this month, we wanted to tell you about two of our volunteers, both in their 80’s, and share what Silver Line Scotland means to them.

Kate’s story Kate (Kathleen) is 83 and has been volunteering at Silver Line Scotland for nearly a year. A friend suggested she volunteer as she’s ‘a bit of a Chatterbox’. Kate says “I was extremely flattered that someone thought I still had something to offer.

I feel privileged to do what I am doing” Kate makes outgoing friendship calls to people waiting to be matched with a Silver Line friend.

When asked why she volunteers Kate explained “I like a very structured life and the Friday I work fills an otherwise empty day. In my ‘Old Age’ I feel better all round. By volunteering I feel part of the world again, being accepted by the young staff here. I can empathise with the age group I speak to, most of us suffer the same age problems”.

Richard’s story Richard volunteers in the Silver Line Scotland helpline and heard about the service after using information factsheets from Age Scotland.

“I cared for my wife, Morag, for many years until she died last August. After sorting through papers I came across some information about the helpline and I noticed they were looking for volunteers. I now have some time on my hands and I thought I might as well try to get involved with something a bit different.

After getting in touch with the charity I met with Cat who spent time telling me about the role and what was involved.

I make regular friendship calls to older people in the Silver Line telephone friendship service and it’s terrific. I have already spoken with people and in one call I discovered our lives had unknowingly interacted through our shared experience of active service with the forces”.

Angela – Helpline Co coordinator states – “Having more mature volunteers in the helpline really strengthens The Silver Line Scotland service as we all benefit from their experience and perspective on later life”.

Call Silver Line Scotland on 0800 4 70 80 90

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inform

PHOTO FINISH

Congratulations to Ken Lindsay of Giffnock on winning our photo competition with his submission ‘The Potter’!

Here’s what our judges had to say: “The Potter encapsulated everything that we were looking for in our competition. It’s a beautifully shot photo and the subject really captures the theme of ‘Celebrating Active Older People’. The craft of creating that pot is something that you feel has taken a life time to perfect and the photo condenses that experience perfectly.”

Thanks to our competition partner Damart, Ken has won a choice of £1000 or a Weekend away in the Scottish Highlands + £100 of Damart vouchers.

Runners Up Second Prize of £500 + £75 of Damart vouchers went to Kevin Moulds of Glasgow for his submission Still Beautiful; Third Prize to Frank Thom of Bishopbriggs for his Celebrating Active Older People entry Winter Runners, who wins £250 + £50 of Damart vouchers.

We would like to thank everyone who entered the competition - what a fantastic selection of photos!

Submitted photographs will be used in future issues of Advantage Magazine, in our advice literature, and many more places as we seek to celebrate later life.

Our thanks go to Damart for sponsoring this competition.

10 Call Silver Line Scotland on 0800 4 70 80 90

inform

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inform

Every day ten people in Scotland, and 100 across the UK, start to lose their sight. Up to 50% of this sight loss could have been prevented if caught at the right time.

Although sight loss affects people of all ages, it becomes increasingly common the older we get. One in five people aged 75 and over are living with sight loss, and one in two people aged 90 and over.

The five leading causes of sight loss in the UK are refractive error, age-related macular degeneration, cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

However, many older people are needlessly living with sight loss due to refractive error and cataract.

Both of these can be diagnosed by a simple eye exam and, in most cases, sight could be improved by wearing correctly prescribing glasses or undergoing cataract surgery.

Even if your vision seems OK, an eye exam can detect problems you don’t know you have – and save your sight. RNIB recommends an eye exam at least once every two years, while an annual check is recommended for the under-16s and over 60s.

In Scotland, a full eye exam is free for everyone in receipt of NHS services. If you’re unable to attend the optometrist’s (optician) due to poor mobility they may be able to come to your home and examine your eyes with the same equipment used in their practice.

RNIB has four key objectives: 1. To be there at the point of diagnosis of sight loss. This means we work to deliver emotional and practical support in/near to an eye clinic for patients receiving this devastating news 2. To support independence of people with sight loss. This is achieved by our comprehensive range of services that support people of all ages to achieve their potential – at home, work, school or simply out and about.

3. To promote inclusion of people with sight loss in society. We work in partnership with service providers, employers, schools and many more to ensure the needs of people with sight loss are considered whenever possible.

4. Prevent avoidable sight loss. Our work in this field has developed a series of pilots targeting ethnic minority and low income populations to understand how best to support these vulnerable groups to look after their eyes.

d regularly es teste y e r u g yo Gettin

can save your sight

The RNIB helpline (0303 123 999) is a rich source of information, support and advice for anyone living with a sight problem. We have a library of over 20,000 audio books, a transcription service to convert printed texts into audio and Braille, while our technology support volunteers help blind and partially sighted people get to grips with all sorts of new technologies.

Our aim is simple – to make a difference to the lives of people affected by sight loss.

12 To find out about donating regularly call 0800 833 0200

inform

Aerial D ance

Worksh ops. ph o to :

Eoin Car ey

Falkirk Ca b

aret. photo

: Drew Farrell

Luminate Festival opens for submissions Luminate is back this October, and now’s the time to think about whether your group or organisation would like to get involved.

Luminate is a nationwide arts festival focusing on ageing, supported by Age Scotland and based in the charity’s Edinburgh office. Each year groups are invited to put forward events for the festival programme, and this process is now underway for 2015.

So what kinds of events could you put forward?

Previous festivals have included: • Arts activities and performances in care settings or for older people’s social groups • Exhibitions and performances of work by older artists, both amateur and professional • Arts projects bringing together the generations, giving older and younger people the chance to take part as equal partners • Special offers for older people, for example theatre ticket deals including the chance to meet and have a cup of tea together afterwards • Plays, poetry readings and film screenings that feature stories of ageing If your event is included you will be featured in the brochure which is distributed across Scotland, and you will appear on the Luminate website and in the press and media campaign. You will also have you the chance to attend some special events where you will meet other event organisers, and hear about projects taking place elsewhere in the country.

utings mmer o Previous su

If you are running an arts event that you would like to have included in Luminate’s programme, you can apply online at www.luminatescotland.org.

Alternatively phone the Luminate team and they will send you a paper form – 0131 668 8066. The deadline for proposals is 26th June if you want to be included in the brochure, and 7th August for inclusion on the website only.

Community Grants Programme In April, 40 member groups were awarded a small grant from Age Scotland to assist with costs of their 2015 Summer Outing. The grants were awarded to groups the length and breadth of Scotland from Girvan in South West Scotland to Grantown on Spey in the North East.

We’re really looking forward to hearing how all the groups get on and we’ll update you in the autumn edition of Advantage.

Each year through our small Community Grants Programme Age Scotland provides funding assistance to help our local member groups plan and run projects and activities that benefit older people in their communities and contribute to the aims of the charity. As well as the summer outings grants, member groups can apply at any time of year for a development grant. We also have a small grants to assist with the costs of festive celebrations. The closing date for applications for a festive celebration grant is 30th September. For more information on our grants programme please contact your local Community Resource Officer.

Their details are in our ‘Going local’ on pages 24-27.

Find our factsheets: www.agescotland.org.uk/publications 13

inform

Men’s Sheds Over the last 3 years Age Scotland’s Community Development Team has been delighted to provide advice and assistance to groups interested in setting up a Men’s Shed in their community. Now thanks to funding support from the Scottish Government and the Robertson Trust we are able to appoint two new part-time Community Development Officers to the team to strengthen the help we can offer to the growing Men’s Sheds movement in Scotland.

So what is a Men’s Shed?

A Men’s Shed is a meeting place where men come together and take part in a variety of mutually agreed activities. A shed’s activities usually involve making or mending in wood such as carpentry, joinery, turning, carving and furniture renovation but may include a range of other activities decided by the men themselves.

The Shed is an important place of belonging, a place of informal learning to make use of and share skills, develop new interest and it’s a place to grow friendships and connections with other men, and have a laugh. Studies have shown that the Sheds greatly boost the health and well-being of those

people taking part through encouraging positive and active ageing and combatting social isolation.

Perhaps the most exciting thing about Men’s Sheds is that they are a truly collaborative community venture led by the Shedders themselves with support from local organisations.

Men’s Sheds first began in Australia in the late 1990s. There are now an estimated 1000 sheds in Australia. More recently the concept has spread to Ireland, England and Scotland.

The growth in interest in Men’s Sheds in Scotland over the past 3 years has been remarkable. The first charity registered Men’s Shed in Scotland was formed in Westhill, Aberdeenshire in 2013 followed by the opening of both the Macmerry Men’s Shed in East Lothian and the Shed in Oban later that year. Two years on recent research by the Joint Improvement Team indicates that more than 40 Men’s Sheds have been established or in the process of being set up in Scotland.

Tim Green and Ian McVicar, Age Scotland’s Men’s Sheds Community Development Officers, take up their posts in the summer 2015 and will be able to offer support and resources to enable Men’s Sheds who need their help to get started and to grow.

14 Find our factsheets: www.agescotland.org.uk/publications

inform

For more information visit www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/about-us/our-work/community-services/mens-sheds/ and you can see the film about Mens Sheds at www.bettershedthandead.co.uk/.

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Easy to switch. The process of transferring to Cobalt is simple and hassle free.

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Paul Rose, Financial Director – Slaters Mens Wear “We changed our water supply to Cobalt Water after a less than adequate invoicing structure from another supplier. Cobalt Water provided an excellent service coupled with reduced rates.”

Angela Moreland, Financial Controller – Sense Scotland “We are so pleased with the level of service that we are receiving from Cobalt Water Ltd. Savings have exceeded our expectations.”

Gordon Miller, Managing Director – SEMEX (Uk) LTD “After major technical and financial issues with our water supplier we were fortunate to find Cobalt Water who supplied expertise, great service and reduced costs.”

Alan Taylor, General Manager – Holiday Inn Express

Call Kimberley on 0330 333 6510 for more information

www.cobaltwater.co.uk 15

inform

Walking Football comes to the Highlands On the 7th of June, Age Scotland in partnership with the SPFL Trust, SAMH, Paths for All and Spartans Football Club, will host Scotland’s first Walking Football Festival. In the run up to the festival, we have been working to support new Walking Football groups all across Scotland and encouraging them to take part in the Festival.

One of the newest teams in the country is the first group in the Highlands and is a collaboration between Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s (ICT) Community Team and Age Scotland. Launched on the 30th of April, we sent Will Searle from our Communications Team to meet the squad.

The Hilton Community Centre in Inverness was the venue for the launch and as kick off time for the first Walking Football group in the Highlands approached so the hall starts to fill up. First with organisers from Age Scotland and Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s Community team but soon, the members of squad.

We were hoping for at least 10 so that we could have a game of 5s and luckily were rewarded with 11! Players ranged in ages but topped out by Willie Brown at 78 years old!

First up we had a presentation from ICT’s Craig Masterton, who would be the days referee and who set out the rules of Walking Football. To start off the football, we had a display match from ICT’s Community Team along with 3 members of the sides A-squad, Graeme Shinnie, Daniel Devine and, Marley Watkins. Whilst the aim was for the professionals to show how it was to be done, the older plays put the young ones in their place and the passion overflowed with a bit of running that was caught by the ref and a few, shall we say, slightly over-eager challenges!

What was important though was how much the session was enjoyed by all the new players and even Willie Brown, who despite having two new knees and recovering from a heart attack in the last few months, gave a fantastic performance in goals with some blistering saves!

We’ll report back from the Walking Football Festival in the next Advantage but if you’re wanting to know more about Walking Football, head to the back pages where we have an interview with SPLF Trust Chairman, Bob Winter, or visit our website bit.ly/WalkingFootball

16 To donate regularly to Age Scotland call 0800 833 0200

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Silver Line Scotland reported a busy month for March with the number of benefit enquiries overtaking those about care homes. Many callers are simply finding it difficult to manage and are seeking advice about any additional entitlement to benefits. With Welfare Reform it’s hard to keep track of the changes to benefits and if you have never claimed it can be difficult to know where to start.

Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for older people. There are two parts to Pension Credit: guarantee credit and savings credit. You may be able to claim either or both depending on your circumstances.

To be eligible for the guarantee element you must have reached the qualifying age to claim, which is the same as the state pension age for women.

This age is gradually rising but at April 2015 is 62 years and 6 months. If you have income less than £151.20 as a single person or £230.85 as a couple per week then you may be eligible. These rates are higher if you are a carer or have a disability. Savings over £10,000 will be counted as generating income.

The guarantee element is also a passport to other benefits including housing benefit and council tax

reduction. You may also be entitled to help with mortgage interest payments, health costs, and energy efficiency grants.

You could be eligible for savings credit if you are 65 or over and you have some savings or have a pension above the basic state pension and your income is between certain limits.

If you are 65 and over, are physically or mentally disabled and need help with daily living then you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance. It is a tax free benefit and is not means tested so income and savings are not taken into account. You can apply if you need help with personal care or supervision to remain safe but you do not actually have to be getting the help; you can use the money how you wish. There are two rates and the rate you receive depends on the help you need.

Each year billions of pounds of benefits go unclaimed so it’s important to seek advice. A simple phone call to an adviser at Silver Line Scotland 0800 4 70 80 90 is all it takes and we can do the rest. If you can have your income details to hand that would be helpful but if not don’t put off that call we can still give you general advice.

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All aboard the FOOD TRAIN

Food Train volunteers are out and about come

rain, snow o r

shine

Food Train Services Celebrating 20 years on track, Food Train provides a range of volunteer delivered services supporting older people to remain independent in their own home for as long as they wish and are able to. Food Train services available to people over 65 include grocery delivery (Food Train), support with household tasks (Food Train EXTRA), befriending (Food Train Friends), an outreach Library Service (Food Train Library) and more recently a meal sharing project (Meal Makers).

At present Food Train has around 1,700 members across seven local authorities in Scotland including Dumfries and Galloway, West Lothian, Dundee, Stirling, Glasgow, Renfrewshire and North Ayrshire.

These services are made possible with the support of over 800 volunteers.

The success of Food Train comes down to provision of flexible, accessible and affordable low level support services to older people in need. Food Train offers a weekly low cost grocery shopping service delivering vital supplies of groceries to older people who are unable to manage this vital task on their own, whether it be through age, frailty or disability.

With an open referral policy, Food Train delivers services with flexibility, openness and a can-do approach. A £1 annual membership charge allows customers to access the full range of services available in their region.

The shopping service costs £3 per delivery. Lists are collected on a Monday, either in person or via phone. The shopping and deliveries take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, split by local geography. Volunteers unpack the shopping and help to put items away, open jars, bottle tops and read sell by dates, as well as having a friendly chat.

Food Train EXTRA offers support with small jobs around the home, which can significantly reduce the risk from falls. Jobs include cleaning inside windows, defrosting fridge freezers, changing light bulbs and smoke alarms at a charge of £3 per job. Currently EXTRA is offered in Dumfries & Galloway and West Lothian.

Food Train Friends is a befriending service, offering home and telephone contact, clubs, outings and events, currently available in Dumfries & Galloway.

Costing £12 a year, this service offers older people the opportunity to enjoy social contact and friendship.

Food Train Library outreach service (available in West Lothian) offers books and library resources to those who are housebound. To date over 5,000 books have been shared and enjoyed.

Meal Makers launched in Dundee in 2014, expanding into Glasgow in 2015, and is a meal sharing project which matches local cooks (volunteers) sharing extra portions of home cooked

18 Call Silver Line Scotland on 0800 4 70 80 90

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food with local diners (older people) in need. This exciting project is much more than just sharing food, many relationships between cooks and diners have blossomed into great friendships.

If you would like to find out more about Food Train please call 01387 270800 or visit our website: www.thefoodtrain.co.uk.

Quotes from Food Train customers “It gives me such peace of mind to know the volunteers are there keeping an eye on me, they are all so kind and helpful” “An excellent service, fulfilling a great need, especially in rural areas” “I would find life very difficult without Food Train”

Quotes from Volunteers “Volunteering is a rewarding experience and it’s great to be able to help when people most need it” “Coming in to Food Train keeps me busy now that I’ve retired, and it saves me from festering away in front of the telly”

Volunteer Case Study Mrs O is 69 years old and has been volunteering with Food Train since November 2013. Her husband suffered from poor health for 6 years and Mrs O had given up work so she could care for him on a full time basis.

When her husband died in 2013 she felt she had a huge void to fill. Mrs O felt that she had no purpose and was very lost at this time. The feeling of isolation was beginning to have a negative impact on Mrs O’s mental health and general wellbeing, and a family member suggested she should consider volunteering some of her time.

Now Mrs O is one of Food Train Glasgow’s most experienced and reliable volunteers, helping in the office and as Lead Shopper 4 days per week. She also assumes responsibility for mentoring and training new volunteers.

Mrs O has always been very active and enjoyed forming relationships with people. She loves making a difference to older people in Glasgow, and enjoys giving support to people her own age and older. She says that although there are some challenges in the role, she feels the rewards and benefits outweigh these. Mrs O says ‘In all honesty, it is the best thing I have ever done’.

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Get Involved

Get involved with community fundraising INTRODUCING OUR NEW FUNDRAISER I’m Amy Telford, Age Scotland’s new Events and Community Fundraiser. My job means I get to travel around Scotland and I very much hope that I can meet some of you on my travels. I have already met with three member groups and it was wonderful to find out more about the valuable work they do in their communities. It also made me feel really proud to work for Age Scotland.

What I do Over the coming year I will be developing a plan to generate income for Age Scotland, through events and community fundraising. A big part of this involves providing support and materials to our supporters, inspiring and enabling them to raise vital funds.

It is very important that we engage people of all generations because, without the support of the public, our fantastic grants programme and the vital information and advice we provide would not be possible. We want everyone to support, celebrate and love later life.

Amy Telford, Age Scotland’s new Events

and Comm u

nity Fund raiser

While raising money for Age Scotland is extremely important, we fully recognise that our member groups need to raise money for themselves. I am currently offering fundraising advice and support to any member groups who wish to do some 50/50 fundraising. This involves organising an event of your choosing, with support and materials from me, and the funds split equally between both causes. By working together in this way we can raise funds and awareness for both Age Scotland and your own cause in the community.

Together we can help everyone love later life.

Stories I was recently lucky enough to meet with four ladies who form the committee for Age Scotland member group, The Carron Connect Partnership. They run the SOFIA Project, organising social events in the local community for people over the age of 50.

There are countless ways that people of all ages can raise funds for Age Scotland. Whether it’s doing a sponsored walk, fun run or monster marathon, or organising an event at work, at school or in the community; such as a bake sale, coffee morning or even a charity ball. Whatever our supporters would like to do for Age Scotland, I am here to help them with their fundraising.

I was bowled over not only by their commitment to helping those in later life, but also by their support of Age Scotland. Chair, Val Hunter, told me that they would love to do some 50/50 fundraising this year as they “…appreciate all of the support that Age Scotland has shown them and want to give something back.” This was so lovely to hear and I am very much looking forward to working with them on a couple of charity stalls later this year.

Sharing is caring

I was also delighted to attend one of their recent tea

20 New fb page: www.facebook.com/agescotlandfundraising

Get Involved

Attendee s at the SO FIA Project Te a Dance

dances, which was well attended with members ranging from age 55 to 95. It was a real honour to be able to speak with some of the group members, finding out what they get out of coming along to these events. It was very apparent that without SOFIA Project, many of its members would feel lost.

Member, Marilyn Kennedy told me, “I have new lease of life. We’ve made new friends and the girls that run it work hard.”

The committee members also organise coffee mornings, bingo, day trips and special events, such as this year’s strawberry fair (where there will be a prize for the best bonnet or bunnet!), a Scottish Evening and the annual Christmas party.

I also recently visited a member group in Edinburgh, the social committee at sheltered housing development, Old Farm Court. Age Scotland’s Individual Giving Fundraiser, Alison Payne, accompanied me and we had a lovely visit. We met with three members of the committee who organise social events for residents. Jimmy, Diane and Ellen made us feel very welcome and we were amazed by the creativity of their fundraising. I think we actually learnt a thing or two!

Old Farm Court have offered to organise a Soup and a Sandwich event in aid of Age Scotland. It is really lovely that they want to give something back and we are incredibly grateful.

Get in touch Whether you’d like to raise funds for Age Scotland and your own cause on a 50/50 basis, or you would like to organise an event solely for Age Scotland, I would be delighted to help. I can be contacted on 0333 323 2400, or fundraising@agescotland.org.uk.

Thank you for your time and for everything that you do in helping everyone to love later life.

NEW VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES As part of Amy’s role at Age Scotland, she will be recruiting for three brand new volunteer roles.

We have fabulous new collecting cans and need Collecting Can Coordinators in every area of Scotland, to help us place them in small businesses and then manage the cans. This will raise vital funds and raise awareness of our brand and cause.

Event Support Volunteers will be trained to provide support at different kinds of events, from public collections to sporting events. Volunteer Fundraising Committees will organise events in their local area, with support from Amy. Are you interested, or can you help us spread the word? Please get in touch with Amy on the details above. Thank you so much in advance.

fundraising & events now on twitter: @agescotevents 21

Do you and your friends need to know more about prostate cancer?

#MenUnited Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company number 2653887.

3116

Book a Prostate Cancer UK speaker or information stand and get the facts. Find out more at: prostatecanceruk.org/talks

inform

DON’T IGNORE PROSTATE PROBLEMS This is the message of Alister Walker, 62, from Pitlochry, who knows only too well how prevalent prostate cancer is, having been diagnosed with the disease in November 2006, aged 53.

Now Alister is an active member of Men United, Prostate Cancer UK’s movement for men who want to reach men to make sure they know their risk of prostate cancer. “My message to men is don’t ignore your health, take control. Be aware of prostate cancer and consult your doctor if symptoms arise. It can be successfully treated if identified early.”

He has since been receiving quarterly injections of oestrogeon – one of the side-effects of which is impotence. ”I try to manage it as best as I can.

But today I enjoy my life, my family, my passion for photography and I look forward to a few more healthy years to come. I consider myself very lucky.”

“

Alister is now doing everything he can to help other men affected by prostate cancer.

He’s raised money, is the chair of the Perth and Kinross Support Group, has run prostate cancer awareness days and gives talks to people who want to find out more about prostate cancer. From businesses and rotary clubs, to car shows and schools, talking to people about prostate cancer can save lives.

the news hit me like a sledgehammer

For Alister, he can remember the day he was told he had aggressive prostate cancer like it was yesterday. “The news hit me like a sledgehammer. I first suspected something wasn’t right with my urine flow while on holiday in Spain. My wife Jane quickly made an appointment with my GP who then referred me to the hospital for further tests and examinations.

When the oncology nurse confirmed that I had prostate cancer, I remember asking if I would see Christmas that year, but they were unable to give me any predictions. I was shocked and stunned.”

Since his diagnosis Alister underwent radiotherapy.

“My consultant ruled out a prostatectomy (the surgical removal of the prostate gland) for my treatment – so I’ve been lucky not to suffer from one of its common side effects, incontinence.”

”

“It is really good to be able to talk to men and their wives or partners to explain and overcome the fear of Prostate Cancer. Having somebody just to talk to about the signs and symptoms helps a lot and I am lucky to be able to help.”

If you’d like to book a talk and hear from men like Alister, who have a personal experience of prostate cancer, visit prostatecanceruk.org/talks

23

going local

ks Day n on St Patric iors Scree n e S k l i Castlem

news from t he

west

Govan Craft Café

Out and About with the West Team In the West of Scotland, a grant from Age Scotland in March for Castlemilk Seniors Centre helped them install a large TV / projector screen in their café area. The screen and new amplification system (overhead speakers spread across the café area) were installed on March 16th. It was premiered on St Patrick’s Day with Riverdance and Daniel O’Donnell DVDs being screened. 115 older people attended with bingo, raffles, dancing and singing on offer to all. The menu was Irish themed and they even served lime jelly!

Over in South Lanarkshire, Age Scotland grant funding supported Forward@Fifty to pilot a free 6 week course of exercise and activity sessions in Blantyre sports centre. With yoga, body vive, health checks and new age kurling on offer the project proved so successful that further funding was secured elsewhere and the project will now run till the end of July. One participant, Douglas McArthur commented that “I only popped in as I saw the banner outside the sports centre, the organisers were very supportive in encouraging me to join in, now I am in here every day, have met new friends and I feel like a different person”.

Also in March, Govan Craft Café held a two day Arts exhibition of work by Govan’s older residents. (Craft Café, developed by Impact Arts, provides people aged 60+ with the opportunity to access a free arts workshop and support from an artist in residence in a community setting). For the exhibition - entitled

‘People of the River’ – members created pieces of art using different mediums including applique, sculpture, watercolour painting, knitting/crochet and glass painting/gold leafing. The exhibition also included photographs of local landmarks and places of interest.

For inspiration the Craft Café members had researched a number of different Govan-themed topics: including the Garden Festival, Govan Ferry, and Fairfields. Over the two days the exhibition was attended by around 120 people, and was well received. One member commented “I enjoyed the process of visiting and researching different places and then we each played our own part. It was amazing how it all came together. I was very proud of the photographs I had taken and the part I played in the knitted piece.”

Since first opening its doors in 2009, Govan Craft Café has engaged with more than 600 people aged between 50 and 90 years old.

Your local Age Scotland team Your local Age Scotland team To get in touch with your local

To get in touch withcontact your local Age Scotland team Liz Brown: Age0141 Scotland team contact Liz Brown: tel: 420 4002 email: Elizabeth.Brown@agescotland.org.uk tel: 0141 420 4002 email: Elizabeth.brown@agescotland.org.uk

24 For news and views visit www.agescotland.wordpress.com

going local news fro m the sou th

The net wo

rk meetin

gs hears a bout our Po wer of Attorn ey campaign

Network Meetings across the South February saw 100 delegates from our member groups across the South attend the South Regional Network meetings, firstly in St Boswell’s for our members in the Scottish Borders and then in New Cumnock for our Ayrshire & Dumfries & Galloway members. Despite differing formats, the outcomes were the same, with all our members enjoying presentations from Age Scotland Power of Attorney and RSABI (formerly known as the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution).

Both presentations provided members with key information on their respective topics and were followed by lively discussions and a question and answer session. Those attending were also entertained by our new Regional Ambassadors, Iain Howie, Donald Reid and Diana Findlay who will be working within each locality in the South Region.

One of our members from Ayrshire stated “These Network meetings are excellent and give us new vigour and we always learn something new”.

Operation Monarda “If in Doubt, Keep Them Out” in the Scottish Borders Police Scotland had a week long campaign from 23rd March to raise awareness of the dangers of Door Step Crime and Bogus Callers. Morag teamed up with Community Inspector Keith Dougal to remind people to say “NO” to cold callers. Morag and Keith dropped in on Peebles RVS Social Centre, Peebles Age Scotland Charity Shop where members came along to visit, Hawick Senior Citizen’s Lunch Club and Gala Men’s

r Keith D b with Inspecto u l C h c n u L s n e z i t i C r o i n Hawick Se

ougall

Shed and they also had a 2 hour raising awareness session in Morrison’s superstore in Hawick chatting to members and providing literature, offering reassurance and advice on Beating Doorstep Crime which impacts on many vulnerable members of the community. For further information on home safety advice and services contact your local police station on 101 to arrange a free security survey.

Membership on the up!

Membership in the South Region continues to grow, with 30 groups joining Age Scotland since March 2014.

Our most recent members are Men’s Shed Dumfries and the Solway Bridge Club. We now have 228 member groups across North, South and East Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway and the Scottish Borders.

Over the last year we have been able to assist 51 of our member groups access funds from the Age Scotland Grant Programme, most recently Ochiltree Old People’s Welfare and Maidens T Club who will be using their grants towards Outings over the summer.

Your local Age Scotland team To get in touch contact Helen Simpson (Edinburgh): 0845 521 2462 / helen.simpson@agescotland.org.uk Liz Brown(Glasgow): 0141 420 4002 / elizabeth.brown@agescotland.org.uk

25

going local

us ansport’s Granny B mmunity Tr o C e r o m Lis

Carol Summers, our new Community Development Officer has settled into her role: “I’m really enjoying getting out and about meeting member groups.

Our February network meetings in Caithness and Sutherland gave me a lovely chance to catch up with some of our groups and hear about all the great work that they do. We experienced rain, hail, sleet, snow and brilliant sunshine during our visits but, thankfully, everyone travelled safely.”

The Inverness Network meeting in March enjoyed an informative stroke-awareness talk from Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland, while Lochaber’s Network got active with Boccia (a disability-friendly game like bowls) and Otago exercises led by Reshaping Care for Older People (RCOP) Highland colleagues.

Months of hard work from Carol, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and RCOP Highland has paid off with the first Walking Football group in Highland being launched in Inverness at the end of April. An Age Scotland Grant helps “kick” this project off!

In the North East, Age Scotland, along with The Silver City Surfers Aberdeen, has been supporting a small group of women with tablets and iPads. They benefit from a successful mix of volunteer / tutor support and sharing knowledge with each other.

Your local team To get in touch with your local Age Scotland team contact Christine Anderson: PO Box 5754, Inverness IV1 9BR / 01463 713160 / Christine.anderson@agescotland.org.uk

news from t he

Shopper-Aide’s new, “Old Pals’ Ne twork in C lac

north

han

Our joint event in February with GATE (Good at the End) Project covered Power of Attorney, Funeral Plans, Wills and all things to do with planning for the future.

This well-received event also launched the GATE Plan which encourages people to record their wishes.

Suzy Gentle sends a snippet from an Elgin event: “Participants were given the chance to vote for groups who had applied for “Canny Wi’ Cash” grants for 60+ groups. Each delegate had five coins to put in jars to stipulate which project applications they felt should be funded – with the results announced at the end of the day.”

It’s great to witness positive outcomes in older people’s lives related to the strategic work Age Scotland pursues with decision-makers. Jo revisited Lismore Community Transport’s Granny Bus users recently to admire the island’s new vehicle purchased through match-funding from the Scottish Government Community Transport Vehicle Fund.

This £1m Fund was set up following strenuous representation from Age Scotland and partner organisations campaigning for a fairer system for those unable to access the benefits of the concessionary bus pass and for better support for life-line community transport initiatives which many older people depend on.

Further South, in Clachan, Shopper-Aide’s new “Old Pals’ Network” received an Age-Scotland start-up grant to develop this great idea for getting older men together. Jo and members of Campbeltown’s Old Pals’ Network visited at the same time for a fly cuppa!

26 Join us on www.facebook.com/agescotland

going local

news fro m the eas t

Laura D unkel (A ge Scotla nd); Marga Fiona S ret O’Conno mith, Je r (Art in Health an Thom care); son & Cind y Dean (Ha rlawhil Day Ce ntre)

Kinghorn Open Day

The Association of East Lothian Day Centres received support from Laura Dunkel, Community Development Officer, to host a networking evening for staff, volunteers and members of the ten East Lothian Day centres.

The event aimed to promote local services and information while providing an opportunity for networking and informal discussion. Attendees learnt about the support services available from At Home East Lothian, Age Scotland and Alzheimer Scotland. Opportunities to keep active in East Lothian were promoted by the Ageing Well Coordinator and East Lothian Community Care Forum advised people on how to get their voice heard locally. Talks from Adult Protection Service and East Lothian Council Trading Standards provided information on supporting vulnerable older people who may be at risk of scams or abuse.

Art in Healthcare rounded off the evening with a presentation about opportunities for using art in day centres, which led to Harlawhill Day Centre starting to think about hosting a series of art workshops with a finale exhibition. After the formal presentations were finished the conversation to continue to flow over refreshments and a buffet supper.

Ian Donald, Chair of the Association said: “We received positive feedback from all the 35 people that were there and it was good to hear that even the organisations represented got something from it. A big thank you goes to Laura and Age Scotland in facilitating the event.”

Spring has sprung in Kinghorn More than 100 older people took full advantage of a fine spring day to visit the Parish Church hall in Kinghorn.

Following months of careful preparation by the members of Kinghorn Lunch Club, visitors were able to benefit from the information and services provided by representatives from 16 local and national organisations who were delighted to attend the event.

Our Community Health Professionals, Yolanda and Jenny, had interesting sessions with over 30 older people. Key areas of interest were diet and strength & balance. Our Chief Executive Brian Sloan also popped by to meet with many local people and services.

Community Development Officer Douglas Macnaughtan was kept busy all afternoon with an endless stream of interest on the wide variety of information that Age Scotland was pleased to provide.

The event was enhanced by presentations on legal and health matters, which were greatly appreciated.

Kinghorn Lunch Club Treasurer, Sheona Smith was delighted with the day. “This has been a fabulous celebration of the services and support available to everyone in later life in Kinghorn”!

Your local Age Scotland team To get in touch contact Helen Simpson: Causewayside House, 160 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PR / 0845 521 2462 / helen.simpson@agescotland.org.uk

27

Clubs’ Corner

from her front room for years arts and crafts ning Yoker n u r n e e sb mple ha Kate Se

Yoker Craft Group Drive down the street that Yoker Craft Group is based on and you would have no idea that it even exists. Yet every Tuesday in the front room of Kate Semple’s house, a group of friends from across Yoker in Glasgow come together to work to make cards that they give to charities to sell.

The group has been going for 20 years and made thousands of cards that are given free of charge to charities to sell. How many in total and how much they’ve made for charity isn’t really known, when you meet the men and women as they busily produce cards, you realise those details aren’t important.

Under the watchful eye of Kate, the beautiful cards are brought together with expertise and skill. What is even more amazing about this group is that up until very recently, all the materials to make the cards were bought by Kate out of her own pocket.

She has been given a number of awards for her generosity which when questioned about, she brushed aside.

Spending the afternoon with the group you begin to understand why it’s not important how many cards they’ve made or how much money they’ve raised. The cards are good excuse to get together once a week and put the world to rights. Whether it was local news or what Kate’s up to over the coming week, you felt a sense of community that existed around that table as the card makers sat and chatted away. It was clear how much each member of the group supported one another and how much the Tuesday afternoons meant to all who were there.

If you’re a member of a group for older people and you think you might want some help from our Development Officers and our grants programme, please do get in touch, details of how to do so can be found on our website www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland/ get-involved/join-us/.

It was hearing about another local group receiving funding that Kate got in touch with Charlie Murphy, our Development Officer in Glasgow, who helped Kate apply for an Age Scotland grant to buy new materials to keep the card production going.

28 Join us on www.facebook.com/agescotland

soap box

YOU

Could be one of Age Scotland’s Regional Ambassadors?

Help us build our team of Age Scotland Regional Ambassadors Age Scotland is growing our team of Regional Ambassadors and welcomes nominations from Age Scotland member groups in the West of Scotland, Argyll and Bute, Highland, the Western Isles and East Central Scotland.

Who are Regional Ambassadors?

Regional Ambassadors belong to an Age Scotland member group and as well as being involved in the work of their own group also give their time on a voluntary basis to help Age Scotland.

Regional Ambassadors bring fresh perspectives, life experience and talents to Age Scotland complementing the work of our team of Community Development staff team.

What do Regional Ambassadors do?

The role is varied and can be adapted both to suit the time that Regional Ambassadors are able to give and to build on the knowledge, skills and interests of each Regional Ambassador. A main purpose is to strengthen contact and communications between local member groups in a particular geographic area and Age Scotland.

Regional Ambassadors often get involved in disseminating information by telling people and groups in their area about Age Scotland’s work and services. They advise Age Scotland on issues and concerns facing member groups. They sometimes represent the Charity at meetings and network events. They provide practical support to member groups through the work of the Membership Steering Committee (MSC). This Committee makes decisions on grant applications and helps to plan the annual members’ conference.

d: otlan th of Sc Our Regional Ambassadors in the Sou n Howie Donald Reid, Diana Findlay and Iai

Bill Martin explains what he gets out of being a Regional Ambassador in the West of Scotland “I’ve been amazed by the number of Age Scotland member groups, the work they do and the number of hours that volunteers in the groups put into their organisation. Without their contribution, communities in the West of Scotland would be much poorer.

“Senior citizens contribute so much and are very seldom recognised for the difference they make.

I’ve been overjoyed to be able to show Age Scotland’s appreciation and support for the work they are doing by awarding small grants to help groups with their activities.

“It’s also been my pleasure to work with the West of Scotland Community Development Team who have their finger on the pulse with what’s happening in the area. I get much more out of the role than I put in. I’ve a learned a lot.”

Becoming an Age Scotland Regional Ambassador There are currently 5 Age Scotland Regional Ambassadors and we’re keen to grow the team.

If you are interested in becoming an ambassador please contact Kelly Higgins. Tel: 0333 323 2400 Email:corporateservices@agescotland.org.uk.

29

interview

Bob Winte r

Earlier in Advantage we brought you news about our work to bring walking football to the Highlands. In the run up to our Walking Football Festival on the 7th of June, we sat down with Bob Winter, Chair of the SPFL Trust.

The Scottish Professional Football League Trust works in partnership with the 42 professional football clubs in Scotland to create opportunities at the heart of our communities that bring people together and change lives for the better. The Trust, along with the Scottish Football Association, are working to deliver the Walking Football Network across Scotland.

What does the SPFL Trust do?

The SPFL Trust works with the 42 professional football Clubs in Scotland. Covering 84% of Scotland, we deliver charitable initiatives that make a real changes to lives of those taking part and work with Clubs to deliver projects at the heart of the communities they serve. Our key Pillars of Activity are Health, Achievement, Citizenship and Participation.

How did you get involved in the SPFL Trust?

I have always been a football fan, but I spent my career working with those who were most in need of help and support. As a fan, I understand the ability of football to engage with those who are hardest to reach as well as football’s ability to motivate and inspire when nothing else can. In my retirement, I was keen to continue to support good causes and still work with a number of organisations. When the opportunity arose to join the Board of Trustees at the SPFL Trust, I jumped at the chance to combine my two passions to make a real difference to the people of Scotland.

Why did you get involved in Walking Football?

One of our key objectives is to increase the number of people participating in physical activity and the recent growth in popularity of Walking Football has been hugely exciting. We are keen to get involved to make sure that we can use the tools available to us to maximise participation and the Scottish Walking Football Network is an ideal way to do this. We get to work with established partners who can each bring something to the table. From there we have the

30 Get fit and FUNdraise for Age Scotland: call 0800 833 0200

interview power to put a national support network in place so that anyone wanting to take part in Walking Football can do so. This is a great project which makes Scotland’s national game more accessible, regardless of age, ability, gender and health.

What are your hopes for the Walking Football festival?

Mostly, we hope that people from across Scotland will be able to come to Edinburgh and join together for a day of fun and physical activity. We hope to promote Walking Football as widely as possible and encourage people to give it a go. So many people tell us that they haven’t been able to play football for years and that not only do they miss the physical element, they miss the social side of things and being part of a team; hopefully we can spread the word that Walking Football is an exciting way get back in the game. We have an excellent number of teams taking part in the competition on the day but would encourage anyone who may be interested in joining a team, or indeed setting one up, to come and have a chat with the SPFL Trust team (0141 620 4162)

Are you expecting any old rivalries to be brought back at the festival?

I think it is safe to say that no matter the level or setting, football always brings with it some sporting rivalries. That said, a lot of our teams really don’t focus too much on the competitive side of things and do just play for fun, to make friends and get active.

More information The Walking Football Festival: bit.ly/WalkingFootball The work of the SPFL Trust: www.spfltrust.org.uk

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WILLS • POWERS OF ATTORNEY • LIVING WILLS • GUARDIANSHIPS AFTER A DEATH • TRUSTS • EQUITY RELEASE • LEGAL AID

looking after generations We’re dedicated to providing legal services for the elderly and vulnerable, with Legal Aid where possible, so that they and their families are prepared for the future by having their legal affairs in order.

CALL 0800 152 2037

www.solicitorsforolderpeoplescotland.co.uk All our members are regulated by The Law Society of Scotland