Articles and Speeches

Ascot Golden Age
26-Aug-05, Windsor Express Column.

"I entered politics because I wanted people – and particularly older people - to enjoy a better quality of life.

I’ve learnt, both from my MP’s post-bag and elderly people I care for, that life can be stressful if you don’t know where to turn when you need assistance.

So this week I was delighted to open Ascot Golden Age. The event was held at All Souls Church in Ascot - courtesy of Reverend Sebastian Jones - and was organised to raise awareness of the services locally available to the elderly.

There are all sorts of services available in the area ranging from exercise classes and specialist foot-ware to form-filling assistance and travel services arranged by volunteers. There was even time for a Tai Chi session!

It is a local event, organised by local people under the guidance of Graham Box and his Ascot Project steering committee.

From other recent visits to Age Concern and the Chandler Day Centre in Sunninghill, it is clear that elderly people can enjoy a better quality of life with assistance from voluntary and charitable organisations, as well as the local authority, across the Windsor constituency.

People across Windsor are selflessly giving their time to help others and I ask you to please consider contacting one of the many organisations if you have a little time or money to spare.

It seems to me that the way we treat our elderly is a sign of our civilisation in a caring society, and there is so much more to be done."

Adam Afriyie, MP for Windsor.